Cameron Gordon
COMM 3824-01
Prof. Roberts-Gregory
This Changes Everything: Film Analysis
Avi Lewis’ film, This Changes Everything, not only rejuvenates concern surrounding climate change, but also engages with audience members to a point where they are prompted to reimagine the concept of climate change as a whole, as well as its global impact on a large and small scale. This Changes Everything is digestible and appealing to audiences due to its narration, inclusion of mainstream culture and experts,
The opening of the film speaks to the “engagement factor” of the film as it opens with a voice that states the following: “ Can I be honest with you? I have always hated films about climate change. What is it about the melting glaciers and desperate polar bears that makes me want to click away? Is it really possible to be bored by the end of the world? It's not that I don’t care what happens to polar bears, it's just that we are told that the cause isn’t out there, it is in us… and if that’s true there is no hope.” In opening the film with the phrase “can I be honest with you,” there a relationship between the viewer and narrator is established. This phrase directly addresses audience members, and enables them to feel “chosen” or “trusted” as they are at the receiving end of the narrator’s honesty - ultimately, this establishes some form of relationship between the audience and the narrator. This relationship is strengthened as the narrator goes on. The narrator delves into widely held notions of the boredom and lack of concern regarding climate change, which undoubtedly strikes a chord within audience members -it’s as if the narrator understand them. When the strength of the relationship between the audience and the narrator is at its peak, she shifts her narrative. The narrator begins to discuss all she has learned regarding climate change and how her position on the matter has changed, which prompts viewers to tune in and listen to her story; and hopefully change their minds as well.
In addition to the narrative style, experts, “Late Night” hosts, scientists, and environmentalists alike, from Canada to China, are included in the film which bolsters the horror and validity of things such as impact of oil spills, greenhouse gas emissions, hurricanes, etc. The global reach the documentary simultaneously reinforces unity in tackling climate change and environmental injustices, but also shows the ways in which these things can impact humanity as it differs across the globe. In doing so, the film does not discriminate against graphic images and raw footage, which highlight the humanity that can often be lost in films surrounding the environment.
In addition to the environment, This Changes Everything, adds an economic component to climate change, which brings another facet to the documentary. Along with the narrative style, storytelling component, depiction of the realities within humanity, and inclusion of culture and expertise as they pertain to climate change; it is clear how This Changes Everything is a well liked and respected environmental documentary.
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