Abstract

This article aims to highlight contemporary environmental challenges by suggesting a value of merging animated cinema with environmental science. As a potential pathway of deepening the connection with the natural world from an ecological perspective, it proposes an exploration of how cinematic productions can suggest values of closeness for approaching the world. While sustaining the illustration of thematic messages, it points to theories suggesting ‘lines’ of movement and interaction present in the environment, contributing to aspects that promote a deeper ecological awareness. Concepts of life as intertwined lines illustrating development and movement, along with knowledge about communicative and adaptive capacities present in the natural world, can offer a rich narrative framework that highlights potential intricate relationships between humans and the environment. By integrating theoretical approaches aligned with visual thinking, scientists, filmmakers, and artists face an interdisciplinary potential to suggest perspectives and create engaging narratives. These can not only contribute to visually translating the complexities of nature but also stimulate experiential aspects and pathways for sustainable transformation. This article will consider authors and a case study where these integrations are reflected, proposing to elevate their sense of engagement with environmental issues. Overall, it seeks to emphasise the potential of the arts, particularly through animated cinema, to weave, illustrate, and underline a deeper understanding of ecological interdependencies, catalysing renewed possibilities of observation with a sense of environmental responsibility and respect for the biodiversity of our planet.