Bridge on the
River Kwai

Film Synopsis

Classic “war” movie about the challenges of changing (and dismantling) the system that has captured you. Directed by David Lean, so top tier cinema visuals, structure and design but character-driven.

Climate Lens

How does a climate perspective alter how we think about this story and the characters? Does it ignite ideas or revisions regarding the way we tell such stories specific to climate change?

Climate Discussion & Reflection Prompts

Building the bridge made life better than it might have otherwise been for the prisoners.  Was the bridge in the movie a success?  

Who gets to decide?

In a climate change context, what is the bridge?


In your climate change context, what are the opposing armies analogous to?

Are there only two sides?


Colonel Nicholson - having remained defiant - turns the tables on General Saito by communicating how the original bridge was built improperly and in the wrong location, then shares the solutions his team has prepared is a profound shift in the narrative and position of the protagonists and antagonists. What are the most surprising shifts in climate narratives you've seen lately on the global stage?


Is there anything about Shears' decision to “volunteer” for the mission that seems familiar to you, for your life?

Who’s volunteering to fight climate change?  Are they “your team?”

Who’s deciding where the climate fight focuses?  Are they “your team?”


When Nicholson says “What have I done?” - what does he mean?

Was he questioning his commitment to build the bridge?

Was he questioning his investigation of the explosives wire?

Have you seen anything similar among climate advocates or fossil fuel companies?


What role does heat play in making escape impossible or in punishing the captives?

Can heat be a weapon?  A wall?


Is climate change a war?

Can it be won?

What is the actual enemy and who is in command?

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