We want our food fast, convenient and cheap, but at what cost? As farms have become supersized, our environment suffers and so does the quality of our food. Food for Thought, Food for Life, a new documentary from director Susan Rockefeller (HBO's Christopher Award-winning documentary Making The Crooked Straight, Planet Green's A Sea Change) explains the downsides of current agribusiness practices and also introduces us to farmers, chefs, researchers, educators, and advocates who are providing solutions. The film is both poetic and practical; its powerful examination of the connections between our planet and our well-being is accompanied by specific strategies that protect both. With an eye towards a sustainable and abundant future, it offers inspiration for communities that are ready to make a difference.
Punctuated by the words of environmentalist Wendell Berry, earth-inspired artwork, and uplifting music, the film highlights organizations and people doing things right. From the forward-thinking practices of Chef Dan Barber and Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture to guerrilla gardener Ron Finley's transformation of urban neighborhoods, the ways we can start a revolution are varied and exciting.
"I sought out to develop a film that educates people about the negative impact our current methods of agriculture have on the earth," said Rockefeller, a creative conservationist and social entrepreneur. "In addition to providing vital information, the film gives viewers the necessary tools to make a difference in their own lives. It explores the connection between the planet and our health and suggests that strengthening that connection will only benefit our future."
The mission of the 20-minute film - which was an official selection at the Short Film Corner at Cannes 2015 and at the 2015 Sarasota Film Festival and other top festivals - and its extensive nationwide outreach campaign is to start a conversation about the food system, bringing everyone to the table to address how we think about, produce, and choose what we eat and to make lasting changes as individuals, communities, and for our earth as a whole.
Food for Thought, Food for Life will be available free for Food Day events. Please contact hello@foodforthoughtfilm.com or fill out our Host a Screening form for more information.