Before the Flood
| 2016Directed by: Fisher Stevens
Main Plot
Before the Flood follows actor and environmental activist Leonardo DiCaprio as he embarks on a global journey to explore the impacts of climate change. The documentary highlights the alarming effects of rising temperatures, melting ice caps, and extreme weather events, showcasing firsthand accounts from scientists, activists, and communities affected by environmental degradation. DiCaprio visits various locations around the world, including the Arctic, Indonesia, and the Amazon rainforest, to witness the consequences of human activity on the planet. The film emphasizes the urgent need for action to combat climate change and features discussions on renewable energy, conservation efforts, and the role of policy in addressing environmental issues. Throughout the narrative, DiCaprio advocates for awareness and collective responsibility, urging viewers to engage in the fight against climate change for the sake of future generations.
Characters
- Leonardo DiCaprio serves as the narrator and guide, exploring the impacts of climate change globally and advocating for urgent action to address environmental issues.
- Ban Ki-moon, as the former UN Secretary-General, discusses global climate change challenges and stresses the importance of international cooperation in addressing environmental issues.
- Alejandro G. Iñárritu appears as himself, discussing the impact of climate change and the role of storytelling in addressing environmental issues.
Ending Explained
Before the Flood concludes with a powerful call to action regarding climate change and environmental responsibility. Throughout the film, the narrative follows the journey of the protagonist as he travels the globe, witnessing the devastating effects of climate change firsthand. The film highlights various locations suffering from rising sea levels, deforestation, and extreme weather events, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. In the final moments, the protagonist reflects on the information gathered and the alarming statistics presented throughout the documentary. The film culminates in a message of hope and empowerment, urging viewers to take individual and collective action to combat climate change. It stresses the importance of policy changes, renewable energy adoption, and grassroots movements, suggesting that while the challenges are immense, there is still time to make a difference. The ending reinforces the film's overarching theme: the interconnectedness of humanity and the planet. By showcasing both the dire consequences of inaction and the potential for positive change, Before the Flood leaves audiences with a sense of responsibility and motivation to engage in environmental advocacy, ultimately resolving the main conflict of awareness versus apathy in the face of a global crisis.