Stefanie the film critic.

This weekend I settled into my new apartment ready to begin working fulltime at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show.  I took some time to explore my new downtown neighbourhood today and found myself at The Bookshelf. 

 The Bookshelf is an independent bookstore, cafe and movie theatre located in downtown Guelph.  I brought home a copy of their free newspaper called, “Off The Shelf” which has a wonderful calendar of all the movies they are playing this summer.  One movie caught my eye: Food Inc.

Agriculture hits the big screen in Food Inc. directed by Robert Kenner.

As a former dairy farmer, the Holstein cow with a bar code on its side drew my eyes immediately so I investigated further.  According to the “Off The Shelf” review, “Robert Kenner’s (the director) film should be considered essential viewing for anyone who eats.  Part cautionary tale, larger part, wake-up call, Food Inc. exposes the behind-the-scenes reality of where the food comes from for our supermarkets and restaurants, and how corporate agriculture has changed the way crops are grown, harvested and sold.  To makes his points Kenner interviews farmers, consumers, researchers and authors like Eric Schlosser (Fast Food Nation) and Michael Pollan (The Omnivore’s Dilemma).  As a first step towards changing the way our planet  is used for agriculture or just for your family’s health and well being, Food Inc. is Most Highly Recommended*.”

* Off The Shelf movie reviews consist of either a simple synopsis of the plot, a “recommended for …” demographic recommendation, or “Most Highly Recommended”.

I have to say, when I hear a film valiantly “exposes the behind-the-scenes reality of where [food] comes from” something churns in my stomach.  I automatically worry.  I worry that agriculture and food production are being negatively portrayed.  But, that is an unfair judgement of Kenner on my behalf.  I am excited to watch Food Inc. and see what his viewpoint is.

It’s not often that agriculture makes it to the movies, so if you have the chance, take time to see Food Inc. at The Bookshelf.

Food Inc. is running at 9 p.m. from July 31st to August 6th – except when it’s at 7 p.m. on August 1st.  This 2009 American film is rated PG and costs around $10 depending on age or membership.  Enjoy!