Few entertainment products mention climate change. That’s a problem because much more awareness about the arguably most serious issue of our time is needed to move political and other action in the right direction very soon.
“When USC researchers analyzed 37,453 scripted television episodes and films released from 2016 through 2020, they found that just 2.8% mentioned climate change (or a long list of related terms). More recently, a consulting firm and an academic developed the Climate Reality Check, a test to determine whether a film or TV show acknowledges global warming. Of the 13 feature-length, fictional Oscar-nominated movies this year set in present-day or near-future Earth, just three passed the test.”
It is obvious that what we – and especially young people – watch on TV may help shape our attitudes in both good and bad directions. “Researchers have found, for instance, that the beloved sitcom “Will & Grace” helped reduce prejudice against gay men. There’s also a long history of research suggesting that watching violence on screen can lead to increased risk of violent behavior.”
The 2021 movie “Don’t Look Up” was a notable and welcome exception to the above. Although officially about approaching comet with the potential to destroy the Earth, the popular movie was seen by many as addressing climate change. Released mainly on streaming channels during the height of the pandemic, the film soon culminated a viewership of 359.8 million hours, making it the second most-watched film within 28 days of release on Netflix during this period of time.
Hopefully, Hollywood will produce more products directly or indirectly addressing climate change soon! Both monetary, legacy, and societal benefits can be had this way.