Impact Series

Impact Series

Curated Film Experiences for Grades 6 – 12

Montclair Film’s educators have curated a collection of powerful films designed to spark conversation about relevant social issues in science, civics, and social studies. After screening the film, students can engage in a lively discussion with the filmmaker and/or relevant content experts.

’23 – ’24 Impact Series Films and Special Screening Dates*

High School Impact Films
Good Night Oppy – 1/16/24
The Space Race – 2/6/24
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind – 4/18/24
The YouTube Effect – 5/1/24
Middle School Impact Films
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind – 4/17/24
Good Night Oppy – 4/23/24

*Alternative screening dates can be scheduled for groups of 50 or more. New Impact Films may be added throughout the year.

GOOD NIGHT OPPY

NEW! Special Middle School Screening: 3/26/24


Special High School Screening: 1/16/24*

Good Night Oppy is an inspiring STEM film that immerses audiences in the thrilling journey to Mars and the bond between the Mars rover Opportunity and NASA engineers. This cinematic experience brings the excitement and challenges of space exploration to students, igniting their interest in STEM careers.

The film not only celebrates scientific achievements but also showcases the human side of STEM. By featuring women in science and engineering, it breaks stereotypes and encourages young girls to pursue their passions in STEM fields. Through Opportunity’s mission, students witness perseverance and problem-solving skills firsthand, motivating them to explore their interests in STEM. They learn about the resilience required to overcome challenges and the innovative technologies enabling exploration on distant planets.

After the screening, students engage in a conversation with a NASA engineer, providing a direct connection to real-life STEM professionals. This interaction allows students to ask questions, gain deeper insights into space exploration intricacies, and learn about cutting-edge technologies involved in missions like the Mars rover program. It bridges the gap between the classroom and the real world, inspiring students to consider STEM pathways and envision themselves as future scientists and engineers.

Themes: STEM, Robotics, Space Exploration, Engineering

Rated: PG. Recommended for Grades 6 – 12.

THE YOUTUBE EFFECT

Special Media Literacy Screening: May 1, 2024*

YouTube’s story is a compelling mix of inspiration and caution. Emerging in 2005, it rapidly became a dominant global media platform, reshaping access to news, entertainment, and information. While it has enriched our lives, it has also raised concerns about the propagation of dangerous media and right-wing propaganda. This dilemma reflects the challenges of our technology-driven era.

A 2021 Pew Research Center survey confirms YouTube’s position as the most popular social media platform among US teens aged 13-17. The documentary The YouTube Effect explores its rise, showcasing its instant access to diverse content while addressing the darker aspects, including media manipulation.

Following the screening, students can engage in a Q&A session with the filmmaker, Alex Winter, or a Media Literacy expert. This offers invaluable insights into the documentary’s themes and the challenges of our modern world.

Themes: Media Literacy, Social Justice, Current Events, Science and Technology

Rating: Not rated. Recommended for Grades 10 – 12. Some strong language.

The Space Race

Special Black History Month High School Screening: 2/6/24*

From National Geographic Documentary Films comes The Space Race, an emotive and educational exploration of the experiences of the first Black astronauts. This film weaves together archival footage of U.S. space expeditions, Afrofuturist cultural milestones, and stories told by Black astronauts into an enlightening dialogue about the expectations placed on trailblazers. Tackling defining moments of American history, from the Kennedy assassination to the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster to the George Floyd uprising, these dynamic discussions posit new meditations on the fight for equality. As the documentary transverses space and decades, it encourages a reclamation of the past as a way to create a limitless future.

Themes: Social Justice, Civil Rights, American History, Social Activism

Rated: NR

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind

Special Middle School Earth Week Screening: 4/17/24*
Special High School Earth Week Screening: 4/18/24*

The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind tells the true story of William Kamkwamba; the young Malawian boy who built a windmill entirely via DIY methods to save his family and village from drought and famine. Navigating life’s challenges, Alex’s unique bond with nature becomes a symbol of resilience, friendship, and the limitless human potential. The film, an adaptation of William’s book, is a visually stunning and heartwarming exploration of overcoming adversity, forging connections, and utilizing available resources to create a sustainable, renewable energy source. Audiences will be moved and inspired by this true tale of triumph.

Themes: Social Justice, Alternative Energy, Environmental Studies, Community Resilience, Sustainable Development, Global Citizenship, Empowerment, STEM Education, Innovation, Economic Development, Entrepreneurship

Rated: NR

*Film Field Trips dates can be customized for groups of 40 or more students.

Prices vary depending on film selected, number of students, and related speaker fees. If you are interested in learning more, please fill out the Impact Series Inquiry Form below. New Impact Films will be added periodically throughout the school year.