This World Environment Day, explore a curated selection of thought-provoking films and documentaries that shed light on some of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. From industrial pollution and climate change to wildlife conservation and marine biodiversity, these narratives offer powerful insights into the impact of human activity on the planet. Through a blend of compelling storytelling and real-world urgency, each title serves as both a wake-up call and a call to action. These cinematic works not only inform and engage but also inspire meaningful reflection and responsibility. Let these stories deepen your understanding and commitment to safeguarding our environment. 

Irada (JioHotstar) 

Irada is a gripping eco-thriller that unravels a sinister web of industrial corruption and environmental disaster in Punjab. When a retired army officer’s daughter falls fatally ill, his personal tragedy leads to a larger investigation revealing toxic groundwater contamination caused by illegal chemical dumping by a pharmaceutical giant. With the help of a determined NIA officer, he challenges a powerful nexus of politicians and corporate criminals. Sharp, suspenseful, and socially relevant, the film sheds light on the catastrophic human cost of environmental negligence and corporate greed. 

The Ivory Game (Netflix) 

The Ivory Game is a tense, real-world thriller that dives deep into the illegal ivory trade decimating Africa’s elephant population. Following undercover operatives, fearless rangers and wildlife activists, the documentary uncovers the dangerous world of poaching cartels and international smuggling networks. With haunting visuals and urgent storytelling, it powerfully exposes how greed, demand and corruption fuel the extinction crisis—calling viewers to take a stand for conservation and the survival of a majestic species. 

The Day The Earth Stood Still (Amazon Prime Video) 

In this thought-provoking sci-fi reboot, an alien emissary arrives on Earth not with weapons, but with a dire ultimatum humankind must stop its environmental and violent self-destruction or be wiped out to save the planet. The Day The Earth Stood Still blends suspense and spectacle with a stark environmental message, acting as a cautionary tale about how our reckless actions threaten not just our future, but Earth’s very existence. 

Geostorm (JioHotstar) 

Geostorm unleashes a high-octane disaster scenario where humanity’s attempt to control the weather backfires spectacularly. When a climate-controlling satellite system goes haywire, it triggers deadly storms across the globe, forcing a desperate race to prevent a global cataclysm. Packed with action and stunning visuals, the film is more than a thrill ride it’s a warning about tampering with nature’s balance and the unforeseen dangers of overreliance on technology to fix environmental problems. 

Wall-E (JioHotstarar) 

Pixar’s Wall-E is a heartwarming yet powerful tale set in a future Earth buried under mountains of waste, abandoned by humans. The only resident is Wall-E, a lovable robot tasked with cleaning up the mess. When he discovers a tiny plant and a chance for humanity’s return—he embarks on a space adventure that reawakens the hope of a greener future. With charm and poignancy, the film critiques consumerism and environmental apathy while celebrating the potential for redemption and renewal. 

David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet (Netflix) 

In this deeply personal and moving documentary, legendary naturalist David Attenborough recounts his life’s journey while chronicling the planet’s ecological decline. From rainforests to coral reefs, he shows how human activity has devastated biodiversity and destabilized the climate. But with clarity and hope, he outlines a vision for a sustainable future, urging immediate action to restore nature. This film is not just a reflection it’s a compelling call to become stewards of the Earth before it’s too late. 

My Octopus Teacher (Netflix)  

My Octopus Teacher is an enchanting documentary that follows filmmaker Craig Foster as he forms an extraordinary bond with a wild octopus in a South African kelp forest. Through mesmerizing underwater footage and quiet observation, the film reveals the intelligence, vulnerability, and resilience of marine life. It’s a poetic reminder of our deep connection with the natural world and a beautiful case for protecting delicate ocean ecosystems before they vanish.