This weekend marks the 97th annual Academy Awards, an event that comes in the wake of devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. These fires, exacerbated by climate change, have left a trail of destruction, including the untimely passing of filmmaker David Lynch. This article explores how climate change is depicted in cinema, reflecting on films that address this urgent global issue. Through works like Snowpiercer, Don’t Look Up, and First Reformed, we see how filmmakers are grappling with the environmental crisis, often using dystopian narratives to highlight humanity's failure to act.

In January, Southern California was ravaged by wildfires that scorched nearly 57,000 acres. The impact of these fires was not just environmental but also personal, as they claimed the life of visionary director David Lynch. Lynch, who had been battling emphysema, was forced to evacuate during the fires, which ultimately led to his demise. His passing serves as a poignant reminder of the intertwined nature of human actions—whether through smoking or fossil fuel reliance—and their consequences on the planet.

The intersection of tobacco addiction and climate change is a recurring theme in discussions about environmental degradation. The same entities that once promoted smoking to young people now propagate misinformation about climate change. This parallel highlights the ongoing struggle against industries that prioritize profit over public health and environmental sustainability. In this context, it’s disheartening to observe the lack of meaningful climate-themed content in mainstream media, despite the growing urgency of the crisis.

Films like Snowpiercer offer a dystopian vision of a future where humanity’s attempts to reverse global warming result in catastrophic consequences. Set aboard a train circling the Earth, the film portrays a rigid class system and environmental devastation, mirroring the societal inequalities we face today. Meanwhile, Don’t Look Up uses satire to critique society’s apathy towards impending disaster, drawing clear parallels to the climate crisis. The film’s heavy-handed approach has been both praised and criticized, yet its message remains relevant as long as global leaders fail to take decisive action.

Four Souls of Coyote, an animated feature, delves into Indigenous perspectives on environmental stewardship. While the film raises questions about cultural representation, its visuals and themes resonate deeply with those concerned about the preservation of natural ecosystems. Similarly, Take Shelter explores the psychological toll of climate anxiety through the lens of a man preparing for an impending apocalypse. The film’s protagonist, Curtis LaForche, becomes increasingly isolated as he builds a storm shelter, reflecting the challenges faced by climate activists who often feel misunderstood or dismissed by their communities.

Paul Schrader’s First Reformed offers a somber reflection on faith and environmental responsibility. The film’s protagonist, Reverend Ernst Toller, grapples with his own despair as he confronts the harsh realities of climate change. His church, funded by a polluting corporation, is unable to address the issue, highlighting the moral compromises made in the name of financial stability. This dilemma resonates with broader societal debates about the role of institutions in confronting environmental challenges.

The loss of David Lynch and the films discussed here underscore the critical need for more meaningful engagement with climate issues in both art and everyday life. As we reflect on the Oscars and the films that shape our understanding of the world, it’s clear that the stories we tell matter. They can inspire action, foster empathy, and challenge us to rethink our relationship with the planet. Ultimately, these cinematic explorations remind us that the time to act is now, before the storms of tomorrow become too overwhelming to ignore.