Groundswell is a 2026 American environmental documentary directed by filmmaking duo Josh Tickell and Rebecca Harrell Tickell. Written and produced as the concluding chapter of their acclaimed environmental trilogy, the film follows Kiss the Ground (2020) and Common Ground (2023).
The documentary features narration and executive production from Demi Moore and Woody Harrelson. Groundswell explores global agricultural systems, climate restoration, and regenerative farming through real-world stories from farmers, scientists, and Indigenous communities across five continents.
The documentary follows a global journey through countries including Uganda, Kenya, India, and Colombia, where local communities are restoring damaged ecosystems by rebuilding healthy soil.
Through interviews, on-location footage, and scientific explanations, the film presents regenerative agriculture as a practical solution to climate change, food insecurity, and biodiversity loss. Rather than focusing on fear-based messaging, the documentary emphasizes healing, sustainability, and community-driven environmental recovery. Groundswell premiered at the Cannes Film Festival before releasing globally on Amazon Prime Video on June 5, 2026.
Groundswell Age Rating
Groundswell is officially rated PG (Parental Guidance Suggested) for thematic elements including some suicide references and a brief smoking image. While the documentary is educational and optimistic in tone, it explores serious environmental and social issues that may be emotionally heavy for younger viewers. The film discusses economic hardship, crop failures, climate disasters, and the mental health struggles faced by farming communities around the world. Parents may want to provide additional context for children who are unfamiliar with these real-world topics.
Violence & Peril
There is no graphic violence in Groundswell. However, the documentary contains real-world footage of environmental destruction, including droughts, floods, damaged farmland, and communities struggling with food shortages. Some scenes may feel emotionally intense because they show the human impact of climate instability and poverty. The overall tone remains hopeful and solution-focused, but sensitive viewers may still find certain discussions upsetting.
Language
The documentary contains very mild language overall. No strong profanity is reported throughout the film. Conversations remain educational and professional in tone, making it suitable for family viewing in most households.
Mature Themes
Groundswell addresses several mature themes, including climate anxiety, food insecurity, corporate farming practices, economic inequality, and mental health struggles among farmers. The film briefly references suicide in discussions about financial pressure and agricultural debt affecting farming communities. There is also a brief smoking image shown in the documentary. No sexual content or nudity is present.
Is Groundswell Suitable for Kids?
Ages 6–9: With Guidance. Younger children may struggle to understand the scientific and economic topics discussed throughout the documentary. Some footage involving environmental disasters and discussions about struggling communities could also feel emotionally overwhelming for sensitive viewers.
Ages 10–12: Yes, With Parent Discussion. Older children interested in nature, science, or environmental topics may find Groundswell engaging and educational. Parents may still want to explain concepts like climate change, food systems, and mental health in simple terms after viewing.
Ages 13 and Up: Yes. Teen viewers are likely mature enough to understand the documentary’s themes and messages. The film offers valuable discussions about sustainability, farming, and global responsibility while maintaining a hopeful and inspiring tone.
Overall, Groundswell is best suited for viewers ages 10 and older, with parental guidance recommended for younger children because of the emotional and thematic material.
What Parents Can Do
- Explain the basic ideas behind climate change and regenerative farming before watching the documentary together.
- Encourage children to ask questions about food systems, agriculture, and environmental responsibility after the film.
- Discuss the emotional challenges faced by farming communities and why mental health support matters globally.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Groundswell (2026)?
A: Groundswell is rated PG for thematic elements including some suicide references and a brief smoking image.
Q: Is Groundswell appropriate for children?
A: Yes, older children and teens can watch the documentary with parental guidance. Some younger viewers may find the environmental themes emotionally heavy.
Q: Does Groundswell contain violence or scary scenes?
A: There is no graphic violence, but the documentary includes real footage of droughts, floods, and struggling communities affected by environmental problems.
Q: Does the documentary contain strong language?
A: No. Groundswell contains very mild language and no major profanity.
Q: Is there any sexual content or nudity in Groundswell?
A: No. The documentary does not contain sexual content, nudity, or explicit material.
Q: Where can you watch Groundswell?
A: Groundswell began streaming globally on Amazon Prime Video starting June 5, 2026.