Wasted! The Story Of Food Waste

Wasted! The Story Of Food Waste, a 2017 documentary, highly enlightening and thought-provoking, spotlights an issue of immense global consequence that regrettably doesn't get the attention it deserves - food waste. Directed with passion by Anna Chai and Nari Kye and narrated by the late culinary icon Anthony Bourdain, it is not simply a declaration of the problem, but a celebration of the inspirational solutions that people are implementing worldwide, and a call to action for everyone to participate in changing their own habits.

The film boasts of culinary heavyweights such as Dan Barber, Mario Batali, Massimo Bottura, and others, who come forward to discuss the concerning issue of food wastage. The much-celebrated lineup of passionate food industry mavens, each make a convincing case for why we need to start reassessing our relationship with food. Dan Barber, Co-Owner of Blue Hill, Mario Batali, a renowned chef, and Massimo Bottura, owner of the world's best restaurant, Osteria Francescana, offer their wisdom and valuable insights to the audience.

At its core, however, the movie is more than just about big culinary names. It questions the sustainability of our food system and reveals the shocking statistics surrounding food wastage: one-third of all food produced globally goes to waste. That’s an overwhelming 1.3 billion tons of food that’s thrown out each year, a horrible and offensive act towards those experiencing hunger and malnutrition globally. More than just the ethical implications, the film also dives into the environmental repercussions, showcasing how food waste contributes to climate change.

Surely such a profound issue deserves a solution. Wasted! aims to make us aware that there is one - and it can start from our kitchens. From regular households to enormous restaurant kitchens, we can all contribute to reducing waste by better planning and using food scraps we usually throw away. The film shows how different countries and food establishments have creatively turned this health, social and environmental issue into a delectable, mouthwatering opportunity. These broad range of solutions from around the globe let us in on the fact that not only is food wastage preventable – it can also be deliciously solved.

The film's profoundly poignant moments contrast against a surprising amount of levity, using humour and creativity to keep audiences engaged. Wasted! is produced with an unmistakable style, using clever graphics, hilarious animations, and a vibrant, energetic score that keeps you invested from start to finish. It is a documentary that is as visually delightful as it is mentally stimulating.

As a viewer, you will go from being appalled by the scale of wastage in western countries to feeling inspired by pioneering initiatives making a significant difference across the world. From Japan's clever recycling efforts to create electricity, to solutions like composting and donating food to the needy, the film explores a myriad of possibilities to tackle this global crisis. The film also makes sure to balance this aspiration with realities on the ground, detailing the cultural, political, and economic obstacles standing in the way of systemic change.

Though the film revolves around a serious and detrimental issue, it is not preachy. Instead, it casts a thoughtful, playful, and often riveting light on what is usually perceived as an insurmountable problem. It succeeds in providing a rich tableau of people and cultures, bridging the gap between food waste and viewers' hearts.

Wasted! The Story Of Food Waste is not just a documentary. It is a wake-up call that resonates with urgency, a plea to every individual to realize the value of food, and an inspiring showcase of how even the smallest actions can bring about significant changes. Whether you're an ardent foodie, a chef, a farmer, a policy-maker, or just someone who eats, this film has something powerful to share.

In an age calling for proactive climate action and food security, this film is a must-watch and an essential primer for those wishing to understand the intricacies of food waste. It could be the spark that starts us on a journey to a more sustainable, less wasteful, and far more delicious relationship with our food.