Written by Marrian Haileselassie

Movies and travel have always nourished our imagination. We get to experience different cultures, characters and scenery. Nowadays with the Coronavirus, enjoying travel seems a bit difficult but don’t give up just yet. Here are 3 movie recommendations that will rekindle your love for exploration, suggest wilder destinations and leave you with a warm feeling of hope.

1. David Attenborough: A life on our planet

“Nature is our biggest ally and our biggest inspiration”

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David Attenborough, an iconic natural historian and broadcaster, shares how the world has changed since the 1950s. You will be taken across the globe from the comfort of your couch to experience lush green forests, colorful coral reefs and majestic wild beasts living peacefully with nature. With a time lapse to today, his witness statement tells the story of how unsustainable living neglected the environment and why we need to act now.

Takeaways

Although the title is a bit vague, this documentary is a story of inspiration. As Attenborough said when talking about whale hunting, “Now that it was visible, it was no longer acceptable”. Its aim is for you to know what’s happening in the world around you and take action. Attenborough challenges us to adopt a sustainable way of life and teaches us how to build a more constructive world.

2. Invictus

If you need to restore your faith in humanity, this is the movie to watch.

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Based on true events, this movie follows the events that led up to South Africa’s historic victory at the 1995 Rugby world cup. After Nelson Mandela was released from prison and sworn into office, he finds his country divided after apartheid is abolished. In a stroke of genius, he teams up with the Springbok’s captain Francois Pienaar, to covertly unite his people through their shared love for rugby.

Takeaways

This Hollywood history refresher starring Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon brings alive the challenges of polarisation and the joy of unity. Throughout the film, you will see how attitudes and characters change as more people work together towards a common goal. Your heart will swell with this feeling of unity and a desire to visit the monumental Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg yourself!

3. Elsewhere: Alone in Africa

“I wanted to feel alive.”

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Have you ever wanted to leave everything behind and experience something different? Well, Anselm did. After celebrating his birthday in South Africa, he decided to stay a little longer and explore more of the wild continent. This film is the real-life footage of his entire journey with all its ups and downs. Meet the strangers, cultures and landscapes he called home with only his backpack, bicycle and water bottle at his side.

Takeaways

This German documentary shows us Africa’s beauty in its natural true form through one European’s journey. After witnessing the benefits of travelling with a bicycle and the hidden wonders of Africa from Anselm, we’re sure you’ll want to visit too! When in Africa, try exploring a place on foot or on a bicycle. Not only does this eliminate your carbon footprint but it also allows you to absorb the environment.

At Viatu, we are passionate about sustainable wild travel. We love its authentic experiences and desire to preserve its spaces from unhealthy practices. If you’d like to learn about sustainable travel or African getaways, sign up to our newsletter.