Movies About Nature And Adventure

From Hayao Miyazaki, starring Daveigh Chase, Suzanne Pleshette, Miyu Irino, Rumi Hiiragi
Rated PG

Spirited Away is a 2001 Japanese animated fantasy film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The film tells the story of a ten-year-old girl named Chihiro, who, while moving to a new neighborhood with her parents, enters the world of spirits. After her parents are transformed into pigs, Chihiro is employed in a bathhouse for spirits and gods, where she must find a way to free herself and her parents and return to the human world. Along the way, she encounters a vast array of creatures and spirits, some of them friendly and some of them dangerous, and learns a great deal about responsibility, courage, and the importance of family.

From Asif Kapadia, starring Ayrton Senna, Reginaldo Leme, John Bisignano, Neyde Senna
Rated PG-13

Senna is a 2010 British documentary film that chronicles the life and death of Brazilian Formula One racing driver Ayrton Senna, who won three Formula One world championships. The film explores his racing career, his relationships with his family and friends, his rivalry with fellow driver Alain Prost, and his death during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. Through archive footage and interviews with Senna's inner circle, the film paints a portrait of a passionate, intelligent and determined man who was both loved and admired by millions. The film sheds light on the politics of Formula One racing, and touches on the tragic events of the 1994 season which saw Senna's death and the deaths of three other drivers. It is an emotional story that celebrates the life of a remarkable man.

From Directors: Roger Allers, Rob Minkoff, starring Matthew Broderick, Jeremy Irons, James Earl Jones, Whoopi Goldberg
Rated G

The Lion King is a 1994 American animated epic musical film produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation and released by Walt Disney Pictures. It is the 32nd Disney animated feature film, and the fifth animated film produced during a period known as the Disney Renaissance. The story takes place in a kingdom of lions in Africa and was influenced by William Shakespeare's Hamlet. The Lion King tells the story of Simba, a young lion who is to succeed his father, Mufasa, as King of the Pride Lands. After Simba's envious Uncle Scar murders Mufasa, Simba is manipulated into thinking he was responsible and flees into exile. After years of exile, Simba returns to challenge Scar to end his tyranny and take his rightful place as King. The film was directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff and features an all-star voice cast including: Matthew Broderick, James Earl Jones, Whoopi Goldberg, and Nathan Lane. The Lion King was an instant hit and became the highest-grossing film of 1994. It won two Academy Awards, for Best Original Score and Best Original Song, and was praised for its groundbreaking use of computer-generated imagery. It is one of the most popular films of all time, and is regularly

From Yann Arthus-Bertrand, starring Yann Arthus-Bertrand, Glenn Close, Jacques Gamblin
Rated Not Rated

"Home" is a 2009 documentary film by French director Yann Arthus-Bertrand. The film is a collection of aerial shots of various locations across the planet and their natural beauty. The documentary explores how humans are impacting the Earth's ecosystems, and how these changes are affecting the planet's climate. The film also looks at how human activities are depleting natural resources and causing environmental degradation. In addition, the documentary also touches on topics such as inequality, poverty, and consumerism. Through interviews with different people from around the world, the documentary presents an inspiring message of hope and positivity, suggesting that humans are capable of making the world a better place.

From Wolfgang Petersen, starring Jürgen Prochnow, Herbert Grönemeyer, Klaus Wennemann, Hubertus Bengsch
Rated R

The Boat is a 1981 German drama film directed by Wolfgang Petersen. It tells the story of a family's struggle to survive a harrowing voyage across the North Sea in a small boat. The story is seen through the eyes of the eldest son, who must take on the responsibility of caring for his siblings while his father, a former German soldier, attempts to keep them all safe. Themes include courage, family, and the will to survive. Along the way, they must battle storms, hunger, and exhaustion as they navigate their way to freedom. The film was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

From Louie Psihoyos, starring Richard O'Barry, Louie Psihoyos, Hardy Jones, Michael Illiff
Rated PG-13

The Cove is a 2009 documentary directed by Louie Psihoyos which follows an elite group of activists, filmmakers and freedivers as they embark on a mission to expose the mass killing of dolphins taking place in a small cove in Taiji, Japan. The film documents their efforts to investigate and document the dolphin slaughter and capture evidence of the illegal sale of dolphin meat. With the help of state-of-the-art equipment and hidden cameras, the team succeeds in entering the cove and capturing footage of the cruel and often inhumane slaughter. The film also focuses on the politics and economics of the dolphin hunting industry, examining the consequences of the trade and providing a powerful call to action for the conservation of dolphins and other marine life. The Cove won the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature at the 82nd Academy Awards in 2010.

From Ron Fricke, starring Balinese Tari Legong Dancers, Ni Made Megahadi Pratiwi, Puti Sri Candra Dewi, Putu Dinda Pratika
Rated PG-13

Samsara is a visually stunning non-narrative documentary film that provides a unique and thought-provoking look at the world as seen through the eyes of renowned filmmaker Ron Fricke. It captures the beauty of different cultures and landscapes around the world, while exploring humanity’s search for spiritual enlightenment, connecting us with our past, present, and future. Samsara explores the Buddhist concept of "samsara," which refers to the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. The film also provides insight into the human condition, examining our relationship to technology, consumerism, and the environment. Featuring mesmerizing slow-motion images, time-lapse sequences, and aerial shots, Samsara is an ode to the beauty of the world.

From Stanley Kubrick, starring Keir Dullea, Gary Lockwood, William Sylvester, Daniel Richter
Rated G

2001: A Space Odyssey is an influential science fiction film directed by Stanley Kubrick and co-written by Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke. The film follows a voyage to Jupiter with the sentient computer HAL after the discovery of a mysterious black monolith affecting human evolution. The film is a contemplation on the possibility of alien intelligence and its implications for humanity. The film is noted for its scientifically accurate depiction of spaceflight, pioneering special effects, and ambiguous imagery.

From Godfrey Reggio, starring Edward Asner, Pat Benatar, Jerry Brown, Johnny Carson
Rated Not Rated

Koyaanisqatsi is a visionary and thought-provoking 1982 experimental film directed by Godfrey Reggio. It is a visual journey through human life and its relationship with nature, technology, and the environment. Through a mix of time-lapse and slow motion photography, the film examines the rapidly changing world of the modern age, and how humans have been affected by it. It is a study of the disconnect between people and the world around them, and features a powerful Philip Glass score. The title, Koyaanisqatsi, is a Hopi word meaning “life out of balance.” The film is divided into three parts: “Crazy Life,” “Life in Transition,” and “Life Out of Balance.” The film is widely considered to be one of the greatest and most influential documentary films of all time.

From Sean Penn, starring Emile Hirsch, Vince Vaughn, Catherine Keener, Marcia Gay Harden
Rated R

Into the Wild is a 2007 biographical adventure-drama film directed by Sean Penn. It is based on the 1996 non-fiction book of the same name by Jon Krakauer, and tells the true story of Christopher McCandless, played by Emile Hirsch. The story follows McCandless' journey of adventure and self-discovery after graduating from college and donating his savings to charity. He abandons his possessions, adopts a new name and sets a plan to hitchhike to Alaska. Along his journey, he meets a variety of people who shape his life and point him towards his eventual journey into the Alaskan wilderness. Ultimately, the story of Into the Wild is one of self-discovery and the search for meaning in life. It is a story of resilience and the power of nature to teach and humble us. It is also a cautionary tale, as McCandless’s lack of preparedness eventually leads to his death in the Alaskan wilderness.

From Ron Howard, starring Daniel Brühl, Chris Hemsworth, Olivia Wilde, Alexandra Maria Lara
Rated R

Rush is a 2013 biographical sports film directed by Academy Award-winning director Ron Howard and written by Peter Morgan. It stars Chris Hemsworth and Daniel Brühl as the two Formula One drivers James Hunt and Niki Lauda, respectively. The film covers the rivalry between Hunt and Lauda during the 1976 Formula One motor-racing season. The two drivers are contrasted with each other in terms of talent and temperament. While Hunt is an extrovert and playboy, Lauda is a technical genius, disciplined and calculating. Soon, their rivalry intensifies as they battle for the World Championship title. The film follows the two drivers through the season, as they compete in races around the world, and their personal lives are affected by the intense competition. The climax of the film is at the 1976 German Grand Prix, where Lauda, who has been severely injured in a crash, makes a last-minute decision to race despite his own fears, and Hunt is pushed to his limits. Rush is a thrilling and captivating look at the incredible rivalry between two of the most legendary drivers in racing history. Through Ron Howard's direction, the film takes viewers along for the ride and showcases the remarkable determination of both drivers

From Kevin Macdonald, starring Simon Yates, Joe Simpson, Brendan Mackey, Nicholas Aaron
Rated R

Touching the Void is a 2003 documentary film directed by Kevin Macdonald. Based on the 1988 book of the same name by Joe Simpson, the film tells the story of Simpson and his climbing partner, Simon Yates' harrowing and near-fatal climb of the Siula Grande in the Cordillera Huayhuash mountain range in the Peruvian Andes in 1985. After an initial successful ascent, the pair became trapped in a storm on their descent, with Simpson breaking his leg. Yates eventually made the difficult decision to cut the rope attaching them and Simpson was then forced to find his own way back to safety against all odds. The film follows Simpson's journey, with re-enactments of the events and interviews with the climbers, their families, and their rescuers. Touching the Void is an inspiring story of human endurance and the power of the will to survive.

From Tim Burton, starring Ewan McGregor, Albert Finney, Billy Crudup, Jessica Lange
Rated PG-13

Big Fish is a 2003 fantasy drama film directed by Tim Burton and starring Ewan McGregor, Albert Finney, Billy Crudup, Jessica Lange, and Alison Lohman. The film follows Edward Bloom, an eccentric man with a knack for telling tall tales. As his son, Will, tries to learn more about his father, he discovers that the extraordinary stories Edward has told him throughout his life are not just fantastical fiction, but based in reality. Despite Edward’s desire to keep his larger-than-life experiences a secret, Will ultimately comes to understand and appreciate his father’s unique outlook on life.

From Hayao Miyazaki, starring Sumi Shimamoto, Mahito Tsujimura, Hisako Kyôda, Gorô Naya
Rated PG

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is a 1984 animated post-apocalyptic fantasy-adventure film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. In this film, a thousand years after a global war, a seaside kingdom known as the Valley of the Wind is one of the few areas still populated. Led by the courageous Princess Nausicaä, the people of the Valley are engaged in a constant struggle with powerful insects called Ohmu, who guard a poisonous jungle that is spreading across the Earth. When Nausicaä discovers a massive, ancient weapon, she must use her courage, intelligence, and compassion to protect her home and ultimately restore balance to the world. Along the way, she is aided by a strange fox-squirrel creature, gains allies from many different cultures, and ultimately learns the importance of unity and understanding.

From Directors: Jacques Perrin, Jacques Cluzaud, Michel Debats, starring Jacques Perrin, Philippe Labro
Rated G

Winged Migration is a 2001 documentary film directed by Jacques Perrin, Jacques Cluzaud, and Michel Debats. The film follows the migratory patterns of birds across different continents around the world. The film showcases the beauty of the landscapes and the birds in flight, while featuring interviews with bird experts and ornithologists. The film also discusses the impact of climate change and human activity on the environment, and the need for conservation of these species. Through interviews, stunning visuals, and a poetic narration, Winged Migration highlights the beauty and importance of these species, and the need for humans to coexist with nature.

From Ang Lee, starring Suraj Sharma, Irrfan Khan, Adil Hussain, Tabu
Rated PG

Life of Pi is a 2012 fantasy adventure drama film based on the 2001 novel of the same name by Yann Martel. The film is directed by Ang Lee and stars Suraj Sharma as Pi Patel, a Indian boy who is stranded on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger named Richard Parker after their ship sinks. As he embarks on a long and dangerous journey to survive, Pi grapples with the implications of faith and discovers inner strength he never knew he had. Along the way, he forms an unexpected connection with the tiger, and they help each other to survive in their harsh and unforgiving environment. The film explores the themes of faith, resilience, and the power of the human spirit.

From Directors: Christopher Dillon Quinn, Tommy Walker, starring Panther Bior, John Bul Dau, Nicole Kidman, Daniel Abol Pach
Rated PG

God Grew Tired of Us is a 2006 documentary film directed by Christopher Dillon Quinn and Tommy Walker that follows three Sudanese refugees – John, Panther, and Daniel – after their resettlement in the United States. After escaping the civil war in the Sudan, the trio find themselves living in the United States, a place that is both strange and unfamiliar to them. The documentary follows the men as they struggle to learn English, find jobs, make friends, and adjust to life in the United States. As the men struggle to find their place in the world, they must also come to terms with their past and the suffering they endured in the Sudan. The documentary is an inspiring story of resilience and hope.

From Rob Stewart, starring Rob Stewart, Paul Watson, Erich Ritter, Boris Worm
Rated PG

Sharkwater is a 2006 documentary film directed by Rob Stewart. The film follows the adventure of Stewart as he travels around the world in an effort to protect sharks and raise awareness of their quickly diminishing populations. Along the way, Stewart uncovers a multi-million dollar illegal shark finning industry, and the political corruption behind it. Stewart and his team confront pirate fisherman, corrupt government officials, and poachers as they attempt to bring attention to the unsustainable and unethical practices threatening the actual existence of the species. The film combines Stewart's thrilling journey with powerful images and sound to create an inspiring, informative, and entertaining film. Stewart's message is simple: save the sharks before it is too late.

From Directors: Michael Gunton, Martha Holmes, starring Daniel Craig, Koert-Jan de Bruijn
Rated TV-PG

One Life is a 2011 documentary film by Michael Gunton and Martha Holmes. The film follows the life of a variety of animals from around the world, including sea turtles, lions, meerkats, and cheetahs. Through stunning visuals and powerful narration, the film captures the struggles, successes, and joys of animal life. The film also addresses the effect of humans on the natural world, and highlights the need for conservation efforts in order to ensure the survival of wildlife. The film features the voice of Daniel Craig as the narrator, and was nominated for a BAFTA award for Best Documentary in 2011.

From Werner Herzog, starring Timothy Treadwell, Amie Huguenard, Werner Herzog, Carol Dexter
Rated R

Grizzly Man is a 2005 documentary directed by Werner Herzog. It tells the story of Timothy Treadwell, a self-proclaimed environmentalist who lived among grizzly bears in Alaska for thirteen summers. The film follows Treadwell’s life, from his life in California to his time in Alaska, and documents his interactions with the bears. The film also includes interviews with people who knew Treadwell, as well as footage shot by Treadwell himself. In the end, Treadwell was killed by a grizzly bear and his girlfriend Amie Huguenard. The film explores themes of human-animal relationships and the dangers of living in the wild.

From Directors: Louise Osmond, Jerry Rothwell, starring Tilda Swinton, Donald Crowhurst, Ted Hynds, Robin Knox-Johnston
Rated PG

Deep Water is a 2006 British documentary film that tells the story of the first single-handed, non-stop, round-the-world sailing race, the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race of 1968-69. The film follows the incredible journey of amateur sailor Donald Crowhurst as he bravely undertakes the challenge of sailing around the world alone only to tragically succumb to the psychological and physical pressures of the race. In addition to the story of Crowhurst’s trip, the film also chronicles the dramatic race and its competitors, including Robin Knox-Johnston, the first man to ever complete the race. The film features interviews with the participants, their families, and the journalists and organizers who were involved in the event. Deep Water is a gripping exploration of ambition, courage, and the power of the sea.

From Mel Gibson, starring Gerardo Taracena, Raoul Max Trujillo, Dalia Hernández, Rudy Youngblood
Rated R

Apocalypto is a 2006 epic adventure film directed and produced by Mel Gibson. Set in pre-Columbian Yucatan, Mexico, during the decline of the Maya civilization, the film follows a young Mesoamerican man named Jaguar Paw as he is captured by a tribe of Mayan warriors and taken away on a journey of survival. With the help of his friends, Jaguar Paw must escape his captors and make his way back home to save his tribe and his family. Along the way he encounters many obstacles, such as wild animals, treacherous terrain, and a rival tribe. He also must come to terms with his own identity and purpose in life. The film is notable for its realistic portrayal of Mesoamerican culture and the brutal violence of the Mayan civilization.

From Stacy Peralta, starring Laird Hamilton, Darrick Doerner, Dave Kalama, Jeff Clark
Rated PG-13

Riding Giants is a 2004 documentary film directed by Stacy Peralta that chronicles the history and culture of big wave surfing. The film features interviews and footage of some of the most iconic and influential figures in the sport, including Greg Noll, Laird Hamilton, and Jeff Clark. The film also delves into the development of surf culture and the pioneering of bigger, more dangerous waves. It explores the early days of the sport, from Hawaiian royalty to modern-day daredevils. The film follows the rise of big wave surfing and its evolution from the 1950s to the present day. It also touches on the impact the sport has had on generations of surfers, and its influence on popular culture. Ultimately, Riding Giants celebrates the unstoppable spirit of those who ride giant waves and the incredible courage it takes to do so.

From George Butler, starring Liam Neeson, Julian Ayer, John Blackborow, David Cale
Rated G

The Endurance is a documentary about the legendary Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton and his legendary Antarctic expedition of 1914–1916. It follows Shackleton and his crew of 27 men as they attempt to become the first team to cross the Antarctic continent. The Endurance sets sail from England, arriving in Antarctica in late 1914. After months of battling the unforgiving elements, the ship is eventually crushed in pack ice, stranding the crew on an ice floe. With no hope of rescue, Shackleton and his men must navigate a treacherous 800-mile journey across the freezing ocean, facing storms, starvation, and other dangers. The documentary chronicles the incredible hardships and courage of the men as they endure one of the most extraordinary feats of human endurance of all time.

From Werner Herzog, starring Werner Herzog, Scott Rowland, Stefan Pashov, Doug MacAyeal
Rated G

Encounters at the End of the World is a documentary film directed by Werner Herzog which takes place at McMurdo Station, a research facility in Antarctica. The film explores the unique and isolated population of people who work and live at the station. Herzog interviews a variety of people, from scientists to the everyday people who work there, to gain insight into the unusual lives of those who choose to inhabit the icy continent. The film also dives into the natural beauty and creatures of the Antarctic, showing how even in the most extreme of conditions, life still exists and survives. The film provides a captivating glimpse into a world that few have ever seen, and encourages viewers to appreciate the unique and often overlooked wonders of our planet.