Forks Over Knives

Forks Over Knives is a compelling American feature film documentary from 2011 that delves into the controversial and vast subject of the fundamental causes of degenerative diseases. With personal stories, investigative findings, and compelling evidence from renowned researchers, doctors, and nutritionist, the movie presents shocking evidence that points to the benefits of a plant-based, whole-foods diet. This feature-length documentary is directed by Lee Fulkerson with an array of guests, including Matthew Lederman, Alona Pulde, T. Colin Campbell, and Caldwell Esselstyn.

The film's title symbolically sets the tone for the film's main argument, suggesting that choosing a fork (to eat healthier food) can help prevent diseases more effectively than a scalpel (medical interventions) can cure them. Forks Over Knives emphasises that many prevalent health problems like obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer can be prevented and even reversed with dietary changes, specifically towards whole, plant-based foods.

The documentary kicks off when Lee Fulkerson, the film's director, embarks on a personal journey to upgrade his wellbeing, documenting his experiences along the way. After a concerning medical evaluation, he integrates himself into the project, providing a relatable perspective for viewers. As Fulkerson tries to improve his health and well-being, he meets with pioneering figures in the field of nutrition who revolutionise his perspective about food and its impact on our health.

One of the significant characters that Fulkerson encounters on his journey is Dr. T. Colin Campbell, a prominent biochemist and a professor emeritus from Cornell University. Campbell’s groundbreaking research contributes to the core of the film by illuminating the profound link between animal protein and cancer. Also, Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, a famed former surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic, adds another dimension to the research findings. Dr. Esselstyn emphasizes the correlation between the consumption of animal-based and processed foods and heart diseases, and he solidifies the value of a whole-foods, plant-based diet.

In addition to scientific research, the film also includes observational stories from patients of physicians Matthew Lederman and Alona Pulde. The film demonstrates how these patients experience remarkable results when they adopt plant-based diets, providing tangible examples that reinforce the findings of Campbell and Esselstyn. These individual narratives deliver a human face to the scientific assertions, directly connecting with the audience in a relatable and inspirational way.

Furthermore, the film is not just about the researchers or the patients, but it also encompasses wider implications of the food industry’s influence, agricultural processes, and policy-making, questioning the role they play in the health crisis. While the film has a tough subject to handle, it explains these scientific truths without being inaccessible to the layperson. It uses simple language, engaging graphics, and cuts between different stories and contributors to keep the viewers’ attention.

Forks Over Knives, while primarily informative, also serves as an urgent call to action, suggesting that corporations, government and society at large must reconsider their approach to food and nutrition. Through the deeply personal transformations and rigorous scientific findings, it persuasively argues that an alteration in diet could save lives. As the film progresses, it becomes more and more inspiring, with real-life stories of people drastically improving their health through adopting a plant-based diet.

While it advocates the personal benefits of a plant-based diet, the film also takes a more holistic approach, subtly nodding to the beneficial impact this change could have on environmental sustainability. However, it never loses sight of its primary goal: an emphasis on healthier, plant-based eating for disease prevention and treatment.

In summary, Forks Over Knives is a thought-provoking and captivating film that encourages viewers to rethink their dietary choices and recognise the significant impact that food can have on our health. As an informative piece of cinema, it manages to avoid dryness, balancing complex subjects with personal stories and clear explanations. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or a die-hard carnivore, it prompts you to consider your relationship with food and embark on a healthier lifestyle.