Review of Forks Over Knives (2011) by Kyle G — 11 Jan 2012

I just watched this documentary (streaming on Netflix), expecting to have my feathers rustled at the end (because in addition to poo-pooing all meat (even organic, grass-fed meats and lean poultry and fish), it attacked the dairy/egg industry as well, and if anyone knows me, you know how I like my yogurt and cheese).

But what I was not expecting was the scare-tactic approach this film took, basically saying if you eat animal products you're going to get cancer and die. What was most frustrating is that the film spent 95% of the time detailing the evils of consuming animal products and showing the same vile images of fast food and greasy BBQs (neither of which I normally eat) and proposed very little as to what one actually SHOULD consume other than repeating "a whole food plant-based diet" over and over again.

I found it insulting how the film kept drilling in the point that fried foods are bad for you and yet didn't even offer a clear definition of what a plant-based diet really means (let alone recipes, proportions, nutrients, frequency of meals, etc).

It also didn't discuss soy, wheat (gluten), hemp, omega 3s, "complete" proteins, or other hot topics. Instead, it ended by slapping down a website "to continue the conversation" only to list a few vegan cookbooks you should check out.

What this film desperately needs is a sequel that goes in depth at how people living in the reality of the post-modern age should go about incorporating plant-based foods into their diets. Until we start seeing Walmart and McDonald's offering vegan options, I don't see how their message is going to ever get across to the general public, let alone me, a somewhat educated, healthy, tofu/chicken/fish-eater.