Cast
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Morgan Spurlock
as Self
Daryl Isaacs
as Self - Internal Medicine
Lisa Ganjhu
as Self - Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist
Stephen Siegel
as Self - Cardiologist
Bridget Bennett
as Self - Nutritionist & Dietician
Eric Rowley
as Self - Exercise Physiologist
Mark Fenton
as Self - Former Editor: Walking Magazine
Alexandra Jamieson
as Self - Morgan's girlfriend & Vegan Chef
John Banzhaf
as Self - Law Professor, George Washington University
David Satcher
as Self - Former U.S. Surgeon General
Lisa Young
as Self - Professor of Nutrition, New York University
Kelly Brownell
as Self - Professor, Yale Center for Eating and Weight Disorders
Jacob Sullum
as Self - Senior Editor, Reason Magazine
Tommy Thompson
as Self - Secretary of Health and Human Services
William J. Klish
as Self - Head of Dept. of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital
Crew
Director
- Morgan Spurlock
Producer
- Morgan Spurlock
Reviews
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Click here for a video version of this review: https://youtu.be/GDnLyf2Dr18
When it first came out in 2004 _Super Size Me_ was a hit due to its simple concept and exposé of the fast food industry, specifically McDonalds. To refresh your memory about this documentary classic, here is the official description:
_Morgan Spurlock subjects himself to a diet based only on McDonald's fast food three times a day for thirty days without exercising to try to prove why so many Americans are fat or obese. He submits himself to a complete check-up by three doctors, comparing his weight along the way, resulting in a scary conclusion._
It is a pretty straightforward documentary, Spurlock films himself eating McDonald's for a month and intercuts this with doctor's visits, information on the fast food industry and McDonald's as a company, and conversations with various health professionals. One of the stand out parts for me was when he paid a visit to a school showed the rubbish the kids were being served, and the reaction of the school administrators was interesting. One tried to justify it and laugh it off, whereas one of the ladies from the kitchen was quite resigned to having to serve up this stuff to the kids. She even says something along the lines of "the kitchen tool we use here the most is a box cutter to open this stuff up". Spurlock doesn't just leave it at that, he shows another school that serves healthy lunches to its students for around the same price, to show that it can be done.
Throughout, Spurlock doesn't put his own spin on things, but relies on the information presented to speak for itself. The physical effects his diet had were quite shocking. It is by far not a scientific experiment or approach, but it does show what effect regular long term consumption of fast food can have on your body. As such it is a useful reminder of information we already know. Heck, we knew it back then, and if anything, the consumption of junk of shows no signs of slowing down.
I enjoyed watching this again, and definitely think its worth checking out if its been a while since you saw it. In fact with a sequel now out, perhaps this is a great time for a second look.
Apr 27, 2020
Thematic Analysis
Super Size Me represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Morgan Spurlock brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2004, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Super Size Me took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.1 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 117 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2004, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Super Size Me shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Shapeless Tracking, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Super Size Me subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Devenir maman : notre combat contre l'endométriose and Unrest explore similar territory, Super Size Me stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 17, 2004
- Runtime: 1h 40m
- Budget: $65,000
- Revenue: $28,575,078
Where to Watch
