Naomi Klein's Playlist of Films about the Environment (Ages 12-14)
Canadian author Naomi Klein compiled this playlist of documentaries that investigate the complex relationship between the economy and our environment. The films examine the impact of corporate decisions on the environment and celebrate the inspiring responses of communities in Canada and around the world. Pour visionner cette sélection en français, cliquez ici.
Canadian author Naomi Klein compiled this playlist of documentaries that investigate the complex relationship between the economy and our environment. The films examine the impact of corporate decisions on the environment and celebrate the inspiring responses of communities in Canada and around the world.
Pour visionner cette sélection en français, cliquez ici.
Sélection
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Being CaribouLeanne Allison et Diana Wilson 2004 54 minIn this feature-length documentary, husband and wife team Karsten Heuer (wildlife biologist) and Leanne Allison (environmentalist) follow a herd of 120,000 caribou on foot across 1500 km of Arctic tundra. In following the herd's migration, the couple hopes to raise awareness of the threats to the caribou's survival. Along the way they brave Arctic weather, icy rivers, hordes of mosquitoes and a very hungry grizzly bear. Dramatic footage and video diaries combine to provide an intimate perspective of an epic expedition.
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CafeteriaFrancine Hébert 2015 24 min
This short documentary looks at how an entire community mobilized to improve the cafeteria menu at a primary school in Cocagne, New Brunswick. Rallying behind this noble cause, residents put their shoulder to the wheel, promoting products from local farmers over those of multinational corporations. Everyone gets involved to make healthy eating a common goal as well as a learning opportunity.
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Worst Case ScenarioGlynis Whiting 2001 43 min
This documentary looks at the risks of a proposed sour gas well near Clearwater River, in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta. Farmers and landowners all share concerns. Residents opposed to the well fear a deadly hydrogen sulphide leak. Shell Canada says it must drill to meet energy needs. When mediation talks break down, both sides anxiously await a ruling from Alberta's Energy and Utilities Board.
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Our NationhoodAlanis Obomsawin 2003 1 h 36 min
In this feature-length documentary, Indigenous filmmaker and artist Alanis Obomsawin chronicles the determination and tenacity of the Listuguj Mi'kmaq people to use and manage the natural resources of their traditional lands. The film provides a contemporary perspective on the Mi'kmaq people's ongoing struggle and ultimate success, culminating in the community receiving an award for Best Managed River from the same government that had denied their traditional rights.
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The Hole StoryRichard Desjardins et Robert Monderie 2011 1 h 19 min
In this feature documentary, Richard Desjardins and Robert Monderie continue in the same provocative vein as their earlier Forest Alert, this time turning their lens on Canada's mining industry. Using striking images, rare archival footage and interviews, The Hole Story analyzes company profits and the impact of mining on the environment and workers’ health.
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Marilyn Waring on the Environment Show ThreeTerre Nash 1996 26 min
Marilyn Waring, ex-MP in the New Zealand Parliament and spokesperson for global feminist economics, now lives and works on her farm in the lush green hills of New Zealand. While in office, Waring fought to preserve the priceless natural resources of her riding, drawing on the pragmatic wisdom of her neighbours--farmers whose livelihoods depend on sustainable land use, and the Maori, who have lived in harmony with their environment for countless generations. Waring makes a convincing argument for changing a system that does not value what may be our most precious assets: clean air, water, and the unspoiled ecosystems that sustain and enrich life on earth.
