The Climate Future Film Festival - New Bedford Whaling Museum
Poster for the Climate Future Film Festival. At the top, text reads: ‘Ten award-winning short films from four continents explore the human and artistic response to climate change.’ Below, a black-and-white image of a man standing in front of a large pile of rubble, looking directly at the camera. At the bottom, the festival title reads: ‘Climate Future Film Festival’ with emphasis on ‘Future’ in bold black. It also notes the honorary judge, Bill McKibben, founder of Third Act. Genres listed include drama, documentary, dark comedy, and animation.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE:

  • 5:30 PM: Doors Open
  • 6:00 PM: Screening Begins
  • 7:07 PM: 14-Minute Intermission
  • 8:21 PM: Program Concludes

The Climate Future Film Festival
Friday, October 24, 2025 | 6:00 PM

Join us for an evening of cinematic exploration at The Climate Future Film Festival, an inspiring event founded by Jim Stahl that delves into the artistic and human responses to the climate crisis and the paths that may lie ahead. The festival promises a thought-provoking program that highlights the power of storytelling in addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time.

Program Highlights
This eclectic lineup features 10 short films from four continents, showcasing a variety of genres, including drama, documentary, comedy, and award-winning animation. These films capture the spectrum of emotional and intellectual responses to climate change—from optimism and resilience to grief and resolve. Expect moments of humor (yes, humor!) alongside poignant reflections and stunning visuals.

Renowned climate leader and author Bill McKibben serves as the festival’s Honorary Judge. As part of the screening, Bill will provide an engaging video introduction, offering insights into the films and their relevance to our shared climate challenges. He has also personally selected the three top films to receive awards during the program. Although Bill will only appear on video during this screening, he will be at the Whaling Museum in person the following day for the New Bedford Lyceum program.

Festival Themes
The films tackle diverse perspectives on our climate future, exposing a range of responses:

  • Optimism vs. Cynicism
  • Climate Denial vs. Climate Grief
  • Rage vs. Resilience

Trailer
Get a sneak peek at this year’s festival lineup by watching the trailer here.

Tickets
Tickets are $10 for Museum Members and $20 for Non-Members. Space is limited, so reserve your spot early! Don’t miss this evening of creativity, insight, and connection as we explore the many ways we face and interpret our climate future.