EMA Green Streaming Guide for the Holidays
As the snow starts to dust the streets and the scent of pine fills the air, December arrives with its magic, inviting us to cozy up and indulge in the warmth of holiday films. But this year, let's not only revel in the seasonal cheer; let's take a step further. As we prepare to stream our favorite movies, why not celebrate the spirit of sustainability and environmental consciousness? This December, join EMA in discovering a curated selection of films that entertain and carry the powerful message of environmental stewardship and sustainable production.
The holiday season wouldn't feel right without a super cozy blanket, a warm cup of cocoa – and a feel-good film marathon. Here is a list of five sustainably produced or cozy environmentally focused films that will be perfect to watch during the holidays.
Candy Cane Lane (2023)
Amazon Studios
Eddie Murphy stars in the film, playing the main character "Chris." This comedy adventure is about "Chris," who wants to win his neighborhood's annual Christmas home decoration competition. As you can imagine, with Eddie Murphy at the helm, jokes ensue.
Candy Cane Lane is one of EMA's Green Seal Recipients for 2023 for sustainable production.
Dear Santa (2023)
Paramount Pictures, Upcoming Film
Jack Black reunites with the Farrelly Brothers for the Paramount comedy Dear Santa. It has been twenty years since Black and the Farrelly Brothers last worked together on the film Shallow Hal. The story revolves around a child who intends to write a letter to Santa Claus but sends it to Satan instead.
Dear Santa, is one of EMA's Green Seal Recipients for sustainable production.
A Reindeer Journey (2018)
Amazon Studios
The story follows a young reindeer's migration across Lapland during his first migration across the country. Production filmed the movie in Posio and Utsjoki in 2017 and 2018.
A Reindeer Journey is a great opportunity to learn more about and understand the animal kingdom in the Arctic North and the natural environment in Lapland, which is in northern Scandinavia. As well as learning about climate change, viewers will also learn how human endeavors such as deforestation and road building contribute directly to the planet's degradation.
Arthur Christmas (2011)
Amazon Studios
Arthur Christmas is an enchanting, animated movie that unveils the intricate high-tech system managing Santa's yearly gift distribution. In this contemporary rendition of the North Pole, Arthur, Santa's son, uncovers an overlooked present intended for a child.
While focusing on the operation of Santa's high-tech gift delivery system, the film also touches upon embracing change and adaptation in the face of a rapidly evolving world. It subtly encourages viewers to think about the environmental impact of technology and the importance of preserving Christmas traditions while being mindful of the planet.
Happy Feet (2006)
Apple TV+
This delightful film follows the journey of Mumble, a penguin with a passion for tap dancing in a world where singing is the norm. As Mumble navigates through the Antarctic, his story entertains and carries a profound environmental message.
Set against a changing climate impacting the penguins' way of life, Happy Feet subtly highlights the importance of environmental conservation and the consequences of human actions on the natural world. Through Mumble's adventure, the film encourages young and old audiences to cherish and protect our planet's delicate ecosystems.
As 2023 ends, we are proud of the hundreds of TV and movie sets committed to sustainable practices. The industry has a long way to go, but each year, we see more and more enthusiasm to tell stories in a way that doesn't damage our planet. How can you help? Support films that achieved our EMA Green Seal and acknowledge the tremendous effort the cast and crew put forth to earn the recognition.
Lexi Fleck is in her 2nd year at UCLA, majoring in Sustainable Urban Design and minoring in Film.