The world of cinema is evolving, and not just in terms of special effects or storytelling techniques. A recent study by Good Energy, a story consultancy with a unique mission, has shed light on an important aspect of film representation: climate change. Their Climate Reality Check report, now in its third year, assesses the visibility of climate change in Oscar-nominated films, and the results are intriguing.
Good Energy, in collaboration with Dr. Matthew Schneider-Mayerso, has developed a test inspired by the Bechdel-Wallace Test, which evaluates gender representation. This new test asks a simple yet powerful question: does the film acknowledge climate change and its existence? The results of this test provide an insightful look at how Hollywood is addressing this global issue.
This year, a record-breaking number of films passed the Climate Reality Check. Out of the 16 eligible films, a diverse group of five movies made the cut: ‘Arco’, ‘Bugonia’, ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’, ‘The Lost Bus’, and ‘Sirāt’. This is a significant improvement from previous years, with only 10% passing in 2025 and 23% in 2024. What makes this particularly interesting is the variety of films that made the list, showcasing a range of stories and characters.
Anna Jane Joyner, founder and CEO of Good Energy, highlights the impact of these films: “These films reflect ordinary people who find the determination to meet the moment.” She believes that stories have the power to shape our understanding of chaos and provide a vision for the future. In a time of environmental uncertainty, these films offer a unique perspective on climate change and the role of individuals.
One of the producers of ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’, Patrick Crowley, emphasizes the importance of authenticity in science fiction. He believes that by reflecting our relationship with the natural world, films can inspire and motivate audiences to take action. Crowley’s comments highlight the potential for cinema to be a powerful tool for environmental advocacy.
Personally, I find it fascinating how these films, through their diverse narratives, manage to incorporate climate change in a meaningful way. It’s a step towards a more conscious and responsible approach to storytelling. With such a high pass rate this year, it’s clear that filmmakers are becoming more aware of their role in addressing this critical issue. I’m excited to see how this trend continues and evolves in the future, and how it might influence other industries to follow suit.
