The Superfood Chain

The Superfood Chain is an evocative and engaging 2018 documentary film that is directed, written and co-produced by the award-winning Canadian journalist and filmmaker, Ann Shin. The movie is a stirring exploration of the multi-layered world of ‘superfoods’, those foods which are marketed and widely believed to be nutritionally dense and thus good for one's health. This includes trendy items like avocados, quinoa, salmon, and many others which are currently at the forefront of the global food trends.

The Superfood Chain takes the audience on a riveting journey across the globe, from the pristine coastlines of the Pacific Northwest, the lush landscapes of Bolivia, to the vibrant localities of the Philippines, and the serene fisheries of Haida Gwaii, Canada. Through this, the film delves into how the global demand for these so-called 'superfoods' is affecting the indigenous cultures, economies, and environments of the areas where they are sourced.

The movie expertly utilizes visually stunning cinematography and compelling narratives to shed light on the intricacies and impacts of the 'superfood' phenomenon. Ann Shin’s thoughtful and nuanced direction encourages viewers to question their own dietary choices, consumer habits and the unsustainable practices that they unknowingly support. Simultaneously, Shin’s objective lens allows viewers to comprehend the predicaments of farmers and fishermen in these regions who are grappling with the pressure of the twofold demand for superfoods; for foreign markets and their own nutritional needs.

In her cinematic journey, Shin introduces the audience to small-scale subsistence farmers, like a Filipino seaweed-growing family attempting to achieve a sustainable life amidst intensive global harvesting, and a couple in Bolivia striving to meet the ever-increasing international demand for quinoa while managing to feed their own family. Additionally, the movie depicts salmon fishermen in Haida Gwaii grappling with depleting stock due to climate impacts and the growing demand for superfood salmon consumption.

Through these stories, The Superfood Chain delves deeper into the cost at which these superfoods reach our plates, the unseen struggles of native farmers and fishermen, and the often overlooked ecological implications. Thus, the film skillfully integrates the dimensions of global commerce, food security, nutrition, and environmental sustainability into a singular narrative thread, providing the audience with an intricate, realistic and thought-provoking insight into the world of superfoods.

Moreover, Shin does not simply critique the global superfood trend, she also attempts to offer solutions, showcasing how ethical consumer choices and sustainable farming and fishing methods can aid in creating a fair trade system that benefits these hardworking communities while also ensuring the longevity of the environment.

The Superfood Chain is a celebration of resilience and the indomitable human spirit. It lauds the farmers and fishers who diligently work, often against crushing odds, to feed not only their local communities but international markets too and manage to do so while maintaining respect for nature, tradition, and their cultural heritage.

The documentary’s glorious cinematography, masterful storytelling, and empathetic portrayal of the individuals at the forefront of the superfood industry make it an essential and impactful watch. It is also a pertinent social commentary, a call to action, urging viewers to be more mindful of their food choices and their far-reaching consequences. Ultimately, The Superfood Chain is not just a story about superfoods; it's a tale about sustainability, respect for and dependency on nature, and a quest for global food security and fairness in an increasingly interconnected world.