2017 was a great year for films. We got a million different Marvel movies, another Star Wars and finally a Wonder Woman. Besides blockbusters, some of the best documentaries about sustainability were made by passionate environmentalists like Al Gore. So when it’s family movie time, instead of watching Love Actually for the 10th year in a row, why don’t you try one of these fabulous new docs?

What the Health

The controversial film was released earlier in the year made people consider adopting a vegan lifestyle. The documentarian explored links between a meat- and dairy-heavy diet and serious diseases like obesity and diabetes. Some have argued that they may have stretched the truth. You’ll have to watch for yourself and decide what’s the truth.

Chasing Coral

The beautiful Netflix documentary Chasing Coral brings you into the depths of the ocean to explore the unpleasant effects of coral bleaching. It is human caused and has catastrophic consequences for the surrounding environment and livelihoods of people who depend on eco-tourism. For those who love the water, Chasing Coral is a must-see.

 

Rotten 

Although not officially out yet, Rotten is set to be released on Netflix January 5, 2018. The people behind Anthony Bordain’s Parts Unknown tell us in the trailer “the truth is hard to swallow” and tease a true crime styled exposé of the food production underworld. There’s been informative food documentaries in the past, but this six-part series should be a serious deep dive into the global supply chains that bring food to your table.

The Ivory Game

The Ivory Game explores the brutal impact of the ivory trade, the film shows some disturbing images but also highlights the love of the people who try to protect these majestic creatures. The film plays more like a thriller as protecting elephants from poachers is a life of danger. The Ivory Game also introduces the men who distribute the ivory to predominantly international dealers for a high price.

What will you be watching this winter break?