A film that shook an Isleworth audience — and gave us reason to talk

Around 50 people gathered at Isleworth Public Hall on Wednesday 7 October for a screening of The People's Emergency Briefing. The film made the risks of a changing climate feel immediate. The discussion that followed also left room for a vital message: solutions exist, and people can act together.

Jennifer Prain, from the Brentford and Isleworth Labour Women's Group, hosted the evening. Volunteers set out a buffet and refreshments before and after the screening, giving people time to meet and continue the conversation.

The documentary connected climate and nature evidence to everyday life. It covered weather extremes, climate tipping points, food security, health, national security, nature, economics and the energy transition. Seeing those subjects brought together on screen was a shock for many in the room.

One line has stayed with me: “The climate we live in today is the least extreme climate we will experience in our lifetime.” It sent a chill down my spine. I thought about what our children and grandchildren may face, even as the most difficult effects may fall beyond many of our own lifetimes.

After the screening, Councillor Katherine Dunne led a discussion. Several audience members stood to ask thoughtful, searching questions. The concern for future generations ran through the conversation, but so did a determination to look for practical answers. The film's warning was stark; it was not a message that nothing can be done.

The evening showed why a local screening matters. It gave neighbours a chance to sit with difficult evidence, ask questions aloud and leave with more than a list of threats. Thank you to Jennifer, Councillor Dunne, the volunteers and everyone who took part.

If you would like to help arrange another local viewing, write to tellus@tw7.info. Interest from a group of at least 30 could make another local session possible, subject to the necessary arrangements. You can also read our original event article and find out more about the film (opens in a new tab).