Urban environments are complex ecosystems where human activity intersects with nature in fascinating ways. These documentaries delve into the challenges and innovations in urban ecology, offering insights into how cities can become more sustainable and harmonious with the natural world. Whether you're an urban dweller, an environmental enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of our cities, this collection will enlighten and inspire.
Urbanized (2011)
Description: A comprehensive look at the design of cities, featuring interviews with architects, planners, and policymakers from around the globe.
Fact: Directed by Gary Hustwit, who also made "Helvetica" and "Objectified," focusing on design in various forms.
Watch Now
The Age of Stupid (2009)
Description: A unique blend of animation and documentary, it looks at climate change through the lens of future generations, with a focus on urban impacts.
Fact: The film was crowdfunded, raising over £450,000, making it one of the first major films to use this funding model.
Watch Now
The Garden (2008)
Description: Chronicles the struggle of South Central Farm, the largest urban farm in the U.S., against developers, highlighting issues of land use and community.
Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival.
30 Days Free
Waste Land (2010)
Description: Follows artist Vik Muniz as he collaborates with garbage pickers in Rio de Janeiro's largest landfill, exploring themes of waste and urban poverty.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
30 Days Free
The Pruitt-Igoe Myth (2011)
Description: Explores the rise and fall of the Pruitt-Igoe housing project in St. Louis, reflecting on urban planning failures and social issues.
Fact: The film uses archival footage and interviews with former residents to tell its story.
30 Days Free
The Human Scale (2012)
Description: Examines how cities can be designed to better fit human needs, focusing on urban planning and architecture in cities like Copenhagen.
Fact: The film features Jan Gehl, a renowned Danish architect known for his work on improving urban livability.
30 Days Free
The City Dark (2011)
Description: This film explores the impact of light pollution on urban wildlife and human health, showcasing how cities can reclaim the night sky.
Fact: The film was inspired by the filmmaker's experience of seeing the Milky Way for the first time in a dark sky preserve.
30 Days Free
Urban Roots (2011)
Description: A look at how urban farming in Detroit is transforming vacant lots into productive gardens, fostering community and sustainability.
Fact: The film features the Michigan Urban Farming Initiative, which has turned a blighted neighborhood into a thriving green space.
30 Days Free
Greening the Ghetto (2010)
Description: This documentary follows Majora Carter's efforts to bring green initiatives to the South Bronx, highlighting the social and environmental benefits.
Fact: Majora Carter was named one of Time Magazine's "Heroes of the Environment" in
30 Days Free
The Greening of Southie (2010)
Description: Follows the construction of Boston's first LEED-certified residential building, capturing the clash between old and new in urban development.
Fact: The film was shot over three years, documenting the entire construction process from start to finish.
30 Days Free
