Preachy documentaries run the risk of losing entertainment value in exchange for making a point. If you are on the side of agreement with the writer or director of the movie it tends to be a much better watch. 2005’s “Thank You for Smoking” is an example of a great film that went after the tobacco industry. I’m not a smoker but have no issue with those that do. The movie was an intriguing watch and proved points can be made without belittling the opposing side of the argument.
Lacking the big budget and star power of the aforementioned piece is the 2004 Independent film “Supersize Me.” Written, produced, directed, and staring comical filmmaker Morgan Spurlock, the movie tackles the creeping obesity epidemic plaguing America, and does so in an unusual way.
While experts are present, and statistics are tossed about like in any good documentary, the focal point of the piece is Spurlock himself, as he embarks on a 30 day anti-cleanse in which he eats nothing but McDonald’s fast food 3 times a day, an affordable camcorder capturing the experiment as it unfolds.
That “Supersize Me” is an attack on fast food is a bit of a misnomer. Sure there are references to several industry players, but be clear; its a direct attack on the iconic giant and pioneer McDonald’s. As Spurlock begins his antics near his home in Manhattan a statistic reveals that there are an average of 4 McDonald’s per square mile on the island. While other companies are touched upon, none such is lambasted as much as the Golden Arches.
“Supersize Me” is a perfect mixture of documentary and fun. Since most people know that fast food isn’t healthy, to say you are learning is a bit of a stretch. Nevertheless, a plethora of information concerning health, nutrition, and dietary habits is produced.
Spurlock makes for a perfect guinea pig as he is the definition of average everyman. With handlebar mustache plastered to his face, Spurlock is downright hysterical as he narrates his journey into a cholesterol filled abyss. The editing is done in a great way as to follow the 30 day journey with various trips to various doctors and information dispensed throughout.
As we learn the perils of fast food with additives like the always present evil of corporate America, Spurlock interacts with others along his journey, like his vegan girlfriend who is appalled by his new diet, his cute nutritionist Bridgett Bennett, and the unforgettable Don Gorske, a man who has consumed nothing but Big Macs every day since he sampled his first in one 1972.
“Supersize Me” is a fun film that is fast paced and despite a seemingly dull subject is thoroughly entertaining. Never have I wanted to avoid fast food and at the same team devour a quarter pounder more than after watching.
by – Matt Christopher
