Written by Marrian Haileselassie

Goodbye 2020 and hello 2021! Whether you’re still celebrating the new year or are back in your (home-) office, here is some January juice to get you going. Here are 3 movies to satisfy the superhero fan in you, highlight the pristine Okavango wetland and share life-lessons from an octopus. Grab your favourite snacks and let’s get started with Netflix & Change: January edition!

1. Black Panther

Black excellence portrayed in Marvel Studios’ universe of superheroes and villains

Treats

African culture meets science fiction and a nation beyond belief – Wakanda – is brought to life. It’s filled with vibrant colours, mind-bending technology and courageous women. When young T’Challa (played by the late Chadwick Boseman) is crowned king of the marvellous hidden nation, his mission is to protect it from outsiders. Rivals and a hidden revenge scheme unfold that test the limits of the king, Wakanda’s gadgets and the trust of his people. Not only is the storyline a rollercoaster, the beautiful landscape featured and its vivid characters will keep your eyes glued to the screen.

Takeaways

Through valiant warriors and unearthly fiction, director Ryan Coogler explores topics of colonialism and pan-Africanism. Incorporating emancipated African culture into everyday life makes the movie a truly refreshing experience. While Wakanda might not be real, its muse – Africa – is. After absorbing its reimagined landscape and culture, you will want to explore the actual continent yourself!

2. Into the Okavango

“We have the power to protect and we have the power to destroy”

Treats

Steve Boyes always had a passion for the wild since he was a boy. As an adult, his love for nature drew him to the Okavango Delta known as “one of the most valuable protected wetlands in the world” for its rich biodiversity and large elephant population. However, its pure waters and harmonious inhabitants are dwindling due to unsustainable human activity. On a mission to protect this sanctuary, join Steve and 3 other professionals as they explore the jewel of the Kalahari in southern Africa and the magnificent animals they encounter along the way.

Takeaways

As a National Geographic Documentary film, you will be equally amazed as informed. Learn about the mysterious source of the Okavango and the practices that compromised the wetland. Learn how an unspoiled oasis is currently under threat from pressurizing human activity and about the efforts to protect the area.

3. My Octopus Teacher

“What she taught me was to feel that you’re part of this place – not just a visitor”

Treats

You’ve probably never heard of the term “underwater forest” before but this film was entirely shot in one. Craig Foster, a successful videographer, finds himself burned out with nowhere but the Kelp Forest in South Africa’s coastline to revive himself. His unexpected encounter with a young octopus turns into a series of life-altering lessons and gives us breathtaking footage of life below sea-level.

Takeaways

You will find yourself completely immersed in the beauty of the Kelp forest. The waves that pulsate throughout the water will make you eager to take a dive yourself - if you don’t mind ice-cold water! You will spot shells, fish and coral reefs with bright and diverse colours in almost every scene in the movie. Meanwhile, you will learn about octopuses and the interrelated balance that exists in the wild through Craig’s eyes.

In this edition of Netflix & Change, we wanted to highlight some efforts in conserving untamed wildernesses. With that, you should have 3 amazing movies for your next movie night. Enjoyed our suggestions? Follow us on Instagram and tell us your thoughts!