In 2006, filmmaker David Guggenheim released a documentary feature that followed former journalist and U.S. Vice President Al Gore on the lecture circuit, as he delivered a comprehensive presentation aimed at raising awareness of the issue of climate change. Characterized as a “global warning,” the film went on to win two Academy Awards, as well as a slew of other accolades – and helped to further bring the discussion into mainstream popular culture. There has been talk of a sequel for some years now, but Paramount has finally released the details of An Inconvenient Truth 2.
Directed by Bonni Cohen and Jon Shenk (Audrie and Daisy), the sequel will differ from the original film in terms of format – in that it will focus on Al Gore’s discussion of ongoing change – in the world and in the environment – rather than simply providing context for his presentations. The sequel has become so highly anticipated that it has already nabbed the opening night premiere spot at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival.
It surely comes as no surprise that this is finally happening now, given the concerns that have been raised by activists regarding the way in which President-Elect Trump regards the subject of climate change, and the dangers it poses.
As Donald Trump sets out his picks for the available jobs in his coming administration, it was announced that Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt is on track for the role of dealing with the environment. Pruitt, however, is renowned for his historical links to the fossil fuel industry, and has been openly critical of the Environmental Protection Agency in the past. For this reason, it’s no understatement when Al Gore highlights the urgency surrounding climate change, in his statement regarding An Inconvenient Truth 2.
“Now more than ever we must re-dedicate ourselves to solving the climate crisis. But we have reason to be hopeful; the solutions to the crisis are at hand. I’m deeply honored and grateful that Paramount Pictures and Participant Media have once again taken on the task of bringing the critical story of the climate crisis to the world.”
On behalf of Paramount, studio Chairperson and CEO, Brad Grey, expressed his excitement at the opportunity to return to this subject matter with Al Gore.
“We are honored to be working again with Al, Jeff Skoll and everyone at Participant on a film whose message is as urgent as ever. Al’s tireless efforts to bring about change continues to inspire all of us as we fight for the health of our world for future generations.”
We’ll have a chance to discover for ourselves whether the impact of An Inconvenient Truth 2 will be as seismic as that of its predecessor when it receives its wider release later in 2017.
