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. Following the screening, students will engage in discussions with filmmakers or content experts. This interactive element will deepen their understanding and encourage critical thinking and dialogue.

NEW! ’24 – ’25 Impact Films*
(New Impact Films are added throughout the year!)

Top Rated ’23 – ’24 Films*

*Customized screening dates can be scheduled for groups of 40 or more.

Film Descriptions and Curriculum Connections

Majority Rules

Special Pre-Election Day Screening: 10/30/24

Majority Rules finds Alaska gearing up to do something no other state has ever done: adopt a pair of election reforms that will eliminate traditional party primaries and allow voters to rank their candidates by preference. Just as election workers, citizens, and politicians are beginning to adapt to this new system, the state’s longest-serving Congressman unexpectedly dies, creating an open seat and prompting a special election that will test this system months earlier than expected. As dozens of candidates – including former Governor Sarah Palin – jump into the race for the highly coveted seat, everyone must learn how these new voting reforms will change the rules of campaigning and winning. The surprising outcome of this special election sparked a groundswell of support for election reform in other states and fierce pushback from political parties and partisans, just as the Alaska general election got underway.

Majority Rules tackles two of our nation’s most pressing questions: How did the American electoral system become so dysfunctional, and is it possible that changing the way we vote might transform our entire system for the better?

After the screening, students will enjoy a lively discussion with the filmmaker, exploring the film’s thought-provoking issues and enriching their experience.

Themes include: Electoral Reform, Ranked-Choice Voting, Political Campaigns, Democratic Processes, Voter Representation, Civic Engagement, Public Policy, Systemic Dysfunction, Election Integrity, Bipartisanship

Key Issues and NJEA Curriculum Connections

The Social Dilemma

Special Screening: 12/4/24

“The Social Dilemma” is a gripping documentary that explores the profound effects of social media on our society. Through interviews with former employees of tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Twitter, the film reveals the manipulative algorithms driving these platforms. It highlights the significant impact on mental health, democracy, and societal norms, posing critical questions about the role of technology in our lives.

After the screening, students will have the chance to participate in discussions with the filmmakers and/or experts in the field. This interactive element will deepen their understanding and encourage critical thinking and dialogue.

Themes include: Media Literacy, Technology Ethics, Mental Health, Digital Addiction, Privacy Concerns, Social Engineering, Data Exploitation, , Misinformation, Corporate Responsibility, Social Media Impact, Algorithmic Bias, Surveillance Capitalism, Human Behavior Manipulation, Cybersecurity

Key Issues and NJEA Curriculum Connections

A Million Miles Away

Special Screening 11/13/24

“A Million Miles Away” is an inspiring film that tells the true story of José Hernández, a Mexican-American farmworker who overcame significant obstacles to achieve his dream of becoming an astronaut. This narrative not only highlights the importance of perseverance and resilience but also provides an in-depth look at what it takes to train at NASA and become an astronaut.
After the screening, students will have the opportunity to engage in discussions with the filmmakers and/or experts in the field. This interactive component will enhance their understanding and encourage them to reflect on the film’s themes and their own aspirations.

Themes include::Immigration and Identity, Resilience and Perseverance, Space Exploration and Training, Diversity and Inclusion in STEM, Socio-Emotional Learning

Key Issues and NJEA Curriculum Connections

 

GOOD NIGHT OPPY

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 include: STEM, Robotics, Space Exploration, Engineering

Rated: PG. Recommended for Grades 6 – 12.

 

THE YOUTUBE EFFECT

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

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

 

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind

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 include: 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.