ALARIS' REVIEWS

21st May 2010
Food, Inc. (2008)

The anti-corporate, exposé documentary is a growing genre, turned mainstream by directors like Michael Moore (Bowling for Columbine, 2002; Fahrenheit 911, 2004). Revealing the ugly face of factory farming is nothing new - even easygoing chef Jamie Oliver got into the scene with his very effective, and highly recommended, Jamie's Fowl Dinners (2008).

Food, Inc. gives a decent presentation of the information we already know, covering the bases of inhumane conditions for animals, and the aggressive rise of cheap, unhealthy foods. However, Food, Inc. also connects other issues to the corporate food industry, including the exploitation of its workforce, the detrimental impact of its practices on food safety, and the extensive bullying of farmers who refuse to join the conglomerates.

The human stories are well chosen, if not as deeply affecting as those in Sicko (2007). The farmers in particular illustrate the powerlessness of individuals in the face of ruthless, multibillion dollar corporations.

While the message of the documentary is a common one, it's also an important one, worth refreshing on a regular basis. There's enough new information to make it feel like more than a rehash of other films, and the interviewees are empathetic. While Food, Inc. is clearly biased on the issue, it's not so heavy handed as to feel juvenile.

For those who don't know where their food really comes from, this is worthwhile viewing. For those who already know, this is an acceptable refresher.

Verdict: A competently presented, anti-corporate documentary about the United States' multinational food industry.

If you like Jamie's Fowl Dinners, you might like this.

**+