A dystopian view of the world presently tends to be in vogue. Perhaps this is not surprising for it can be easy to become despondent when considering the current state of world affairs. This is especially so when bearing in mind the dire predictions associated with climate change.
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Consequently, 2040 is a most uplifting movie to view: an inspiring and enlightening film about our natural environment and what we can do to help protect it.
Australian actor turned award-winning documentary director Damon Gameau (That Sugar Film) embarks on a journey to explore what the future could look like by the year 2040 if we simply embraced the best solutions already available to us to improve our planet and shifted them rapidly into the mainstream.
Structured as a visual letter to his 4-year-old daughter, Gameau asks the simple question: What would the world be like in twenty years if we did all the right things?
In doing so he explores the technology currently available which have the potential to change the world for the better. He puts together a diverse collection of climate action stories from around the world including regenerative agriculture in Shepparton, Victoria and a microgrid connection of solar panels in Bangladesh.
Gameau blends traditional documentary with dramatised sequences and high-end visual effects to create a visual palette of how these solutions could regenerate the world for future generations.
Economist Dr Kate Raworth explains powerfully the concept of a doughnut economics approach, which concentrates on growing jobs, well-being and health rather than consumerism and pollution.
Underlying the film is Gameau's desire for his viewers to perceive the future optimistically. 2040 required eight months of research and interviews with over 100 climate specialists. Consequently, it is grounded in fact as opposed to opinion.
Interestingly, the year 2040 has particular significance for a number of countries. It is the year diesel and petroleum cars will be banned by the United Kingdom and France.
If there is any fault with the film it is that some would consider it lacking sufficient detail especially as climate change is a complex issue. However, often the simple message can be the most profound. And so it is with 2040. Gameau simply outlines what is possible and what is required to get there.
Gameau's charisma and passion shines through. His message is never condescending. Nor does he try to alarm. Quite the reverse. His underlying message is one of optimism. Through his use of humour and openness Gameau wants to encourage not frighten.
His objective is to inspire individual and collective action. He frequently appeals to the views of the young for he considers it is the present young people who will be most responsive to the changes in 2040: the planet will be theirs to nurture.
2040 looks to the future, but is vitally important now!
- Movie: 2040 (G)
- When: Sunday 28th
- Where: Lilac City Cinema
- Country: Australia
- Genre: Documentary
- Cost: $10
- Time: 4.30pm
- Running Time: 93 mins
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