Racing Extinction is a powerful documentary that delves into the environmental impact humans have on the planet, particularly focusing on the mass extinction of species. If you were moved by this film and are looking for more documentaries that tackle similar themes, here are 20 movies you might enjoy.
1. An Inconvenient Truth
This groundbreaking documentary, starring former Vice President Al Gore, highlights the devastating effects of climate change. It offers a compelling argument for immediate action to protect our planet.
2. Before the Flood
Leonardo DiCaprio takes viewers on a journey to witness the impacts of climate change firsthand. The film features interviews with scientists, activists, and world leaders.
3. The Cove
This intense documentary uncovers the secretive world of dolphin hunting in Taiji, Japan. Directed by Louie Psihoyos, it features activist Ric O’Barry as he works to expose this brutal practice.
4. Chasing Ice
Photographer James Balog and his team use time-lapse cameras to capture the melting of glaciers. The stunning visuals provide undeniable evidence of climate change.
5. Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret
This documentary explores the environmental impact of animal agriculture. Filmmakers Kip Andersen and Keegan Kuhn investigate the industry’s role in deforestation, water consumption, and pollution.
6. Blackfish
Gabriela Cowperthwaite’s film examines the ethics of keeping orcas in captivity, focusing on the life of Tilikum, a performing killer whale. The documentary raises questions about animal rights and corporate responsibility.
7. Virunga
Set in the Congo’s Virunga National Park, this documentary follows park rangers as they protect endangered mountain gorillas from poachers and armed militia. The film is both a thrilling and heartbreaking look at conservation efforts.
8. Mission Blue
Oceanographer Sylvia Earle leads this documentary, which highlights the urgent need to protect the world’s oceans. The film features stunning underwater footage and a call to action for marine conservation.
9. Plastic Ocean
Journalist Craig Leeson teams up with diver Tanya Streeter to explore the impact of plastic pollution on the ocean. The documentary reveals the pervasive nature of plastic waste and its effects on marine life.
10. The 11th Hour
Produced and narrated by Leonardo DiCaprio, this documentary examines the state of the global environment. It features interviews with experts who discuss the challenges and solutions to climate change.
11. Our Planet
This series, narrated by David Attenborough, showcases the natural world and the impacts of human activity on it. The stunning visuals and compelling storytelling make it a must-watch.
12. Earthlings
Narrated by Joaquin Phoenix, this documentary exposes the suffering of animals in various industries. It is a powerful and often difficult film to watch, but it raises important ethical questions.
13. The True Cost
This documentary explores the environmental and social impacts of the fashion industry. Filmmaker Andrew Morgan takes viewers behind the scenes to reveal the true cost of cheap clothing.
14. Gasland
Josh Fox’s documentary investigates the effects of hydraulic fracturing (fracking) on communities across the United States. The film highlights the environmental and health risks associated with this controversial practice.
15. Food, Inc.
This film examines the industrialization of the food system and its impacts on health, the environment, and workers’ rights. It features interviews with farmers, activists, and industry experts.
16. More Than Honey
Markus Imhoof’s documentary explores the global decline of honeybee populations. The film looks at the causes and consequences of this crisis, highlighting the importance of bees to our ecosystem.
17. The Ivory Game
This film exposes the illegal ivory trade and its devastating impact on elephant populations. Filmmakers Kief Davidson and Richard Ladkani follow activists and investigators as they work to stop poachers.
18. Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things
This documentary explores the benefits of living with less. Filmmakers Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus interview people who have embraced minimalism and found greater fulfillment.
19. The Age of Stupid
Set in a future devastated by climate change, this film looks back at real footage from the present day to question why we didn’t act sooner. The documentary blends drama and reality to deliver a powerful message.
20. Tapped
This documentary examines the bottled water industry and its effects on health, the environment, and communities. Directors Stephanie Soechtig and Jason Lindsey reveal the hidden costs of bottled water consumption.