Educational Media Reviews Online

This 6-part series is a great collection of educational documentaries packed with interviews, insights, and images. Instructors can’t go wrong when using these films in classes! Each documentary is independent of the others, but all share the same theme – exploring local solutions for feeding the world. Seeking both the local and international perspectives, the producers interviewed an impressive variety of recognized leaders and professionals working in the sustainable agriculture and human rights arenas including small-scale farmers, lobbyists, United Nations directors, ethicists, local government officials, authors, activists, and even a Nobel Peace Prize winner.

The films are less than 30-minutes long each, which makes them perfect for in-class viewing and discussion. Each film is appropriate for a variety of courses ranging from business to anthropology. Whether purchased as a set or individually the price is a deal.

Recognizing the films can stand-alone, I’ve included highlights and reviews for each DVD in the series:

1. Old or New? Peruvian chefs and farmers work together while valuing traditional farming methods and the biodiversity of indigenous foods. Recommended.

2. Food or Fuel? This timely film debates the value of biofuel crops and asks the question, “Why feed a car in Europe while I’m going hungry?” While not resolved by the time the documentary was completed, the locals have since won this particular debate. Researching this case further could make for a great group discussion assignment. Recommended.

3. Big or Small? Set in Nebraska, farmers, lobbyists, and others debate the value of big versus small farms with respect to producing food and creating employment. This film includes an wonderful variety of experts and provides great insight into the issues. Highly recommended.

4. Fat or Skinny? While set in India, it explores the problems countries are facing regarding poverty reduction, high calorie malnutrition and obesity. From public health experts to sustainable agriculture advocates, this film packs in a lot. Highly recommended.

5. Near or Far? Covers food security and the government’s efforts towards creating markets for native crops in Nigeria. Recommended.

6. Stay or Go? Challenges a public relations company to rebrand farming to appeal to a new generation before Asia’s aging farm workforce retires. This film covers a unique and fascinating perspective making for an excellent discussion starter. Highly recommended.