Written by Marrian Haileselassie

Oops, we don’t have any recommendations this month. Just kidding! Happy April Fools’ and welcome to this month’s edition of Netflix & Change. Considering the current situation, you’re probably hoping to go out and explore. But, until you embark on your next adventure, here are 3 movie recommendations that will entice you to go on a real-life game drive, inform you about the dangers of rhino poaching, and open your eyes to the threat that the fishing industry poses to our oceans.

Ready for some edutainment? Here you go!

1. Seaspiracy

“If dolphins and whales die, the oceans die, if the oceans die - so do we.”

Treats

Seaspiracy examines the global fishing industry and the damage being done to our oceans through overfishing and pollution. See for yourself how much of the waste in our oceans is made up of discarded fishing nets and fishing gear, causing the death of marine life. The documentary also rejects the concept of sustainable fishing and highlights modern slavery that occurs within the industry.

Takeaways

Other than highlighting the threat that the global fishing industry has imposed on marine life, Seaspiracy also focuses on what we can do to conserve our oceans. The solution, according to the film, is to eliminate fish consumption (or at least, reduce it). Seaspiracy will open your eyes to the harm that humans are doing to our environment, as well as the corporate greed which is perpetuating the problem.

2. &Beyond Live Streams

Real-life game drives in your living room

Treats

Watching wild animals coexist and go about their normal routines freely is truly magical. In these live streams by &Beyond, you will be taken across the vast savannah plains from the comfort of your couch. Tag along on safaris, game drives, and bush walks across South Africa for a chance to observe wild animals like lions, cheetahs and giraffes in their natural habitat. Along the way, learn about the land, its wildlife, as well as handy tips as though you were on a real game drive!

Takeaways

Filmed, directed and produced by &Beyond, a luxury African safari group, you are guaranteed the best wildlife experience. You’ll learn a lot of fun facts with hours of live streams that teleport you to the wild with a guide by your side. After all that viewing, we’re sure you’ll want to experience a real safari drive to encounter these animals yourself! 

3. Baxu and The Giants

“The earth is not ours. It is a treasure we hold in trust for future generations.”

Treats

Baxu is a gentle 9-year-old girl living with her older brother and drunkard grandmother in an impoverished rural area in Namibia. When outsiders in black SUVs begin to visit her community, she notices a strange change in the locals. Meanwhile, she starts having a series of dreams where mysterious “giants” in the savannah ask for her help. But why are they in danger?

Takeaways

Co-written and directed by Florian Schott, this 30-minute short film tackles the horrific business of rhino poaching in Namibia. Shot through the lens of a young girl, Schott explores the innocent relationship between people and wild animals, without the profits associated with their poaching. It also sheds light on how children can play an active role in advocating against the practice.

With that, add these 3 movies to your weekend watchlist! In this edition of Netflix & Change, we want you to experience a real-life game drive and learn about the dangers that wild animals face, both in the sea and on land.

At Viatu, we stand for sustainable travel to support local communities, protect wild animals and conserve the environment. Follow us on Instagram to learn more.