Before the Flood

Before the Flood is a compelling 2016 documentary film directed by Fisher Stevens, focusing on the imposing issue of climate change. The documentary embarks on an enlightening journey that sheds light on the hard-hitting realities of our time. The film uniquely blends the allure of entertainment and the urgency of education – instigating reflection, conversation, and ideally action among viewers worldwide.

The film follows the Academy Award-winning actor and environmental activist, Leonardo DiCaprio, as he grapples with the existential crisis of climate change and explores its devastating impact on our planet. DiCaprio adopts the role of the United Nations Messenger of Peace in the film. His passion is clear to see, and his involvement adds an additional dimension of engagement to the topic, providing the documentary with an engaging narrative flow precisely suited to engage a mass audience.

Before the Flood seeks to illuminate the realities of climate change by examining its causes, effects, and potential solutions through eyewitness accounts, scientific analysis, and the quest for sustainable alternatives. A key strength of the film is its broad geographic scope. The movie captures DiCaprio venturing to all corners of the globe, from his backyard in Los Angeles to the burning Indonesian rainforests and the melting polar ice caps in Greenland.

The film does an outstanding job of capturing the stark, sometimes harsh realities of our changing world. The imagery of global environmental degradation is juxtaposed with the hearings and conferences of world leaders, bureaucrats, and influential figures in which discussions, debates, and promises about environmental action take place.

Furthermore, the film delves into the politics of climate change, examining how big corporations and private interests can often stand in the way of the swift action required to combat climate change. Rather than shying away from confrontational topics, the documentary depicts the climate change denials, the influence of industry on climate policies and the stark realities of transitioning to renewable technology.

Throughout his journey, DiCaprio interviews a myriad of people from various walks of life, including scientists, environmental activists, political leaders and local residents across the world. Among them are Pope Francis, President Barack Obama, and Elon Musk. These discussions provide diverse and thought-provoking perspectives on the crisis at hand, ranging from an understanding of the scientific processes driving climate change, to the socio-economic implications of a transition to a low-carbon society.

Before the Flood also offers a glimmer of hope amidst the urgency and potential despair of the climate crisis. The film suggests that with a concerted, coordinated international effort, the tide can potentially be turned – a notion which forms the bedrock of DiCaprio's mission. He emphasizes how individual responsibility and changes in daily habits can make a significant difference. This message of hope is evident when DiCaprio visits Elon Musk's Gigafactory – a project that aims to produce more lithium-ion batteries annually than were produced worldwide in 2013, and demonstrate how the world can transition to because a sustainable society built on renewable technology.

In essence, Before the Flood is a powerful, engaging, and educational documentary which delves deeply into the most critical issue facing our planet today – climate change. By leveraging DiCaprio’s global appeal, the movie aims to reach a broad audience to convey relevant messages about our personal and collective roles in the future of our planet. The film provides a comprehensive overview of the phenomenon, its causes and effects, as well as potential solutions. More importantly, it instils a sense of urgency and personal responsibility, motivating viewers to contribute towards a sustainable future. Before the Flood is undoubtedly compelling viewing for anyone interested in understanding more about the climate crisis and what can be done to reverse its effects.