back in may of 2011, roger ebert wrote a review of “forks over knives“. and while he felt the documentary was directed at physicians and focused a bit too much on nutrition (and not on exercise), he had no criticism of the message:
The bottom line: I am convinced this message is true. A plant-based whole foods diet is healthy. Animal protein is not necessary, or should be used sparingly as Asians did, as a flavoring and not a main course. This adds the advantage of allowing us to avoid the chemicals and carcinogens pumped into livestock and poultry. Fast food is lethal. Parents who feed it to their children are helping them get hooked on fat, salt and sugar addiction. The facts are in.
but somehow, by the end of the year, this life-changing documentary became the worst film of 2011 on his show, “ebert presents at the movies“.
(i couldn’t get the video to load, but i urge you to click the link and listen to the banal critique.).
forks over knives wasn’t meant to be entertaining. it wasn’t shot to go up against “transformers” or whatever else hollywood churns out for us to sit in a darkened theatre and shove popcorn and jujubees in our pie holes. it wasn’t glossy because it wasn’t glossing over the facts: we are a sick nation. many of our ailments can be prevented/cured through a healthier diet. hell, even roger ebert changed the way he “eats” because of it:
P. S.: I have recently decided to ditch my canned nutrition and switch to a liquid diet based on fresh fruits and vegetables. Yes, I consulted my physician.
to name this film, of all films, as the worst of the year is insulting and a crime. countless lives have been changed/saved…and that is the power of filmmaking at its core.
i’m not a violent person, but after watching these two critics, i’d like to beet the crap out of them!
2 great resources for you to eat healthier this year are the “engine 2 diet” and whole foods market’s health starts here program.
have a healthy and happy 2012!
Related articles
- Forks Over Kniv… (thrivevegan.com)
- “A Film That Can Save Your Life…” (rootsacupuncture.org)
- Forks Over Knives (healthdiscoveryjourney.com)
