New Film “To The End” Captures the Urgency of the Climate Crisis While Still Offering Hope for a Better Future
By: Alyssa Ford
Image courtesy of To The End
“The old world is dying and the new world cannot quite be born. In the meantime, all kinds of dreadful things are happening.”
This is the opening statement of the newly released climate crisis documentary, To The End, which follows four astounding young women leading the charge: Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, activist Varshini Prakash, climate policy writer Rhiana Gunn-Wright and political strategist Alexandra Roja, as they battle current legislation and defend their generation’s right to a future.
From the team behind Knock Down the House and filmed over the course of four years, To The End sheds light on the trials and tribulations that these trailblazers face as they navigate the corrupt U.S. political system while trying to push through a Green New Deal. Their mission is to shift the narrative surrounding the climate crisis and inspire passive allies to become active supporters of the movements for major change
Why This Film Matters
If there’s one lesson to be learned from To The End, it’s that working people and marginalized communities are at the forefront of the climate movement. Too often, humanity doesn’t feel the urgency to act until it's directly impacting them, but the climate crisis cannot wait . We watch forest fires, floods and train derailments from the comfort of our home, but will never truly comprehend the gravity until it happens to us- until it's too late. That’s why To The End encourages everyone who believes that a better future is possible to stand up against those most responsible for the climate crisis and act now.
This film serves as an opportunity to witness history in the making and educates on the potential for building a better society through climate solutions. The Green New Deal proposes a framework for how to structure policies at all levels of government, with plans to transition the U.S. economy to 100% renewable energy in ten years. The proposal focuses on creating jobs and justice, and intends to provide a smooth transition for fossil fuel workers while also creating prosperity for working class people and marginalized communities, who have been at the brunt of climate change for decades.
Statistics show that people who believe climate change is a threat and want to actually make a difference greatly outnumber those who dismiss or deny the risks. This film speaks to anyone hoping for our government to take action to secure a sustainable future for all, and maybe it’ll even change some minds of skeptics along the way. To The End leaves you feeling angry but inspired, upset but optimistic and at the center, it will leave you ready to join the fight for climate justice.
Where to Watch
To The End was released on Hulu on May 8th and is also available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, prime video, YouTube, Google Play, Vudu, Microsoft, redbox and ROW8. Educators can also purchase or stream the film with accompanying discussion guides. A main component of the movement is spreading the message and inspiring others to take action. If you’re interested in hosting a screening with your community or organization, you can submit a request form here.