Super-Size Me is a documentary film directed by and staring Morgan Spurlock. The film explores the role that fast food plays in our modern lives as well as asking what degree of responsibility the fast food/ junk food companies have in the rising tide of obese people in the world today. The answers hit hard and close to home.

Before I get into this review, I just want to say that Morgan Spurlock has admitted to a history of sexual misconduct and that Jared, the peado, from subway also makes a rather unsettling appearance, so be warned. While I was watching it, I managed to separate the art from the artists, so it didn’t spoil my enjoyment of the film.

This film is fascinating because it tries to show where the line between personal responsibility ends and corporate responsibility begins. Is it McDonald’s fault there are more and more people becoming obese and suffering from things like heart disease? There is no clear answer as the film shows. However, it also exposes cultural practices that try and trick consumers and create a cycle of addiction; which isn’t the best look for Ronald and Co.

The best thing I think this film does is show you just how important the fast food industry is as well as how baked into society it is. People are conditioned to think a certain way about it and even crave it, even though it is slowly destroying their bodies. I think it is almost impossible to watch this film and not rethink eating fast-food; even if that thought is only fleeting. The film does such a good job convincing you and winning you around to its viewpoint that it is very hard to argue against.

Overall, a reverting documentary that asks a lot of hard questions about our relationship with food, highlighting what it can do to us if we are not careful. A cautionary tale for sure.

Pros.

Fascinating.

Not afraid to ask hard questions.

Or show their answers, even if they’re unpleasant.

Will have an effect on your life.

Cons.

The people involved make it off putting to a degree.

4/5

Reviewed by Luke