Top 11 Biology Movies to show at the end of the year

It’s finally that time of year again! The end of the school year is upon us. This time is equally hectic and boring. While some of us are pushing through material and trying to finish in time for final exams and EOCs, it never fails that there is always a little too much downtime. Within the last 2-4 weeks of school, things get confusing and hazy. Do I assign a project? How many students am I going to have today? Is anyone even listening? What do you mean I forgot it was field day?

In the midst of all the hustle and bustle, it is always good to have a backup plan. My backup plan usually consists of a movie day or two. This helps kill time in the classroom and allows me time to catch up on grading, finish the final exam, plan out a vacation with my family, or plan for the following school year. There is not much left to do after the biology EOC, so here is a list of some of my favorite biology/science-based movies that I like to show at the end of the school year. 

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G Rated movies

Wall-E

Rating: G

Released in 2008, Wall-E is an animated film set in a dystopian future where Earth is uninhabitable due to pollution. The story follows Wall-E, a small waste-collecting robot, who embarks on a mission to restore the planet. The film addresses themes of environmental science, sustainability, and the consequences of human activities on ecosystems.

This movie is relevant for a biology classroom as it addresses environmental science, the impact of human activities on ecosystems, and the importance of sustainability.

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PG Rated Movies

Extraordinary Measure

Rating: PG

Released in 2010, Extraordinary Measures is based on the true story of John Crowley, who collaborates with Dr. Robert Stonehill to find a cure for Pompe disease, a rare genetic disorder affecting his children. The film highlights the personal and scientific challenges they face in developing a new treatment. It emphasizes perseverance, innovation, and the role of biomedical research.

This movie is fitting for a biology classroom as it underscores the importance of genetics, medical research, and perseverance in scientific endeavors.

Osmosis Jones

Rating: PG

Released in 2001, Osmosis Jones is an animated film that personifies the human immune system. The story follows Osmosis Jones, a white blood cell, and Drix, a cold pill, as they fight against a deadly virus inside the body of their human host, Frank. The film creatively depicts the internal battle between the immune system and pathogens.

This film is appropriate for biology students as it provides an entertaining yet educational look at how the body combats pathogens.

The Big Year

Rating: PG

Released in 2011, The Big Year is a comedy about three birdwatching enthusiasts

competing to see the most bird species in a year. The film provides a lighthearted look at their adventures and the lengths they go to achieve their goals. It subtly emphasizes the importance of biodiversity, ecology, and conservation efforts.

This movie is suitable for a biology classroom as it highlights the significance of studying and preserving wildlife.

The Lorax

Rating: PG

Released in 2012, The Lorax is an animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s book, focusing on the consequences of deforestation and the importance of environmental conservation. The film tells the story of the Lorax, who speaks for the trees, and the Once-ler, whose actions lead to environmental destruction. It promotes ecological awareness and the need to protect natural resources.

It is appropriate for a biology classroom as it promotes awareness of ecological issues and the need to protect natural resources for future generations.

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PG-13 Rated movies

Gattaca

Rating: PG-13

Released in 1997, Gattaca is a science fiction film that takes place in a dystopian future where genetic engineering defines social hierarchy. The protagonist, Vincent, born without genetic modification, dreams of traveling to space but faces discrimination due to his natural birth. He partners with Jerome, a genetically superior individual whose life took a tragic turn, to navigate this genetically obsessed society.

This movie is appropriate for a high school biology classroom as it prompts discussions on genetics, ethics, and the potential consequences of genetic manipulation.

Contagion

Rating: PG-13

Released in 2011, Contagion is a thriller that follows the rapid spread of a deadly virus globally. It portrays the efforts of scientists, doctors, and public health officials to understand the virus, develop a vaccine, and prevent widespread panic. The film realistically depicts the challenges and complexities of dealing with a pandemic.

This film is suitable for a biology classroom as it illustrates real-world applications of biology in understanding and managing infectious diseases.

The Madness of King George

Rating: PG-13

Released in 1994, The Madness of King George is a historical drama centered on King George III of England, who suffers from recurrent bouts of mental illness. The film explores his erratic behavior, the political implications of his condition, and the primitive medical practices used to treat him. It provides a glimpse into the historical understanding of mental health and the evolution of medical science.

While not strictly a biology film, it offers insights into the history of medicine and the understanding of mental health, making it relevant for discussing the evolution of medical science.

Concussion

Rating: PG-13

Released in 2015, Concussion is a biographical film about Dr. Bennet Omalu, who discovers chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in football players. The film follows his battle against the National Football League (NFL) to bring awareness to the dangers of repeated head injuries. It underscores the impact of scientific discovery on public health and safety.

It is appropriate for a biology classroom as it addresses brain injuries, the impact of repetitive trauma, and the importance of scientific discovery in public health.

Limitless

Rating: PG-13

Released in 2011, Limitless is a thriller that explores the effects of a fictional drug, NZT-48, which enhances cognitive abilities. The protagonist, Eddie, transforms from a struggling writer into a financial genius, but he faces dangerous side effects and moral dilemmas. The film delves into neuroscience, pharmacology, and the ethical implications of cognitive enhancement.

This film can stimulate discussions on the boundaries of scientific advancements and their societal impact.

The Martian

Rating: PG-13

Released in 2015, The Martian is a science fiction film based on Andy Weir’s novel of the same name. It tells the story of astronaut Mark Watney, who is stranded on Mars and must use his ingenuity and knowledge of science to survive. The film covers topics such as botany, chemistry, and engineering, demonstrating the application of scientific principles in extreme conditions.

It is well-suited for a biology classroom as it showcases the importance of problem-solving, adaptation, and the practical use of scientific knowledge in survival scenarios.

The movie(s) I decide to show vary from year to year and even semester to semester. It all depends on the type of class you have. Some of my freshman classes can’t handle an older movie and some of my seniors don’t want to sit through the music of the Lorax. There is plenty of variety here to choose from and plenty of movies to watch (in case you have a little too much free time). 

Lastly, there is always Jurassic park. It is one of my favorite films of all time and, as I have stated before, the perfect biology class movie. Check out my other posts to see a list of why it is the ultimate movie to show in a science classroom!