Naqoyqatsi is the third and final film in the Qatsi trilogy, meaning "life as war". About eighty percent of Naqoyqatsi uses archive footage and stock images manipulated and processed digitally on non-linear editing (workstations and intercut with specially produced computer-generated imagery to demonstrate society's transition from a natural environment to a technology-based one. Just like its predecessors Koyaanisqatsi and Powaqqatsi, the music was composed by Philip Glass. Performed by members of the Philip Glass Ensemble, and featuring the amazing Yo-Yo Ma on cello, this completes the lengthy score which was begun for this film series with "Koyaanisqatsi" in 1982. The music is more in the traditional orchestral tradition than much of Glass's work as a familiar doorway to images so disconnected from the familiar world. One instrument, the cello, plays through much of the piece. Some unconventional instruments are used in addition to traditional ones, including a didgeridoo and an electronically created jaw harp.

Naqoyqatsi is available as a limited edition of 500 individually numbered copies on translucent red coloured vinyl, housed in a gatefold sleeve and contains an 8-page booklet.