Educational Media Reviews Online

This very basic introductory work answers the need for information on the counterintuitive truth that the wealthiest society on earth is experiencing a hunger epidemic. Through a series of interviews with financial experts, tireless humanitarians, public officials and more, the audience gains knowledge of the distinct nature of poverty and hunger in comparison to other nations, both developed and underdeveloped. The filmmakers interview people in differing situations that result in hunger, not just the outright destitute, such as students paying tuition and single parents. The resounding message of the film is that the hungry in the US are not simply the “poor” or the “lazy.” Instead, it offers details on personal levels that are symptomatic of the larger issue. In so doing, it offers Interesting twists on terminology emphasizing expressions such as “houseless” (as opposed to homeless) and “used-to’s.” Further, the film calls into question a number of hunger-related myths, including the myth of there is no hunger in rural settings, or amongst suburban homeowners. The work also includes a brief examination of overproduction and consumer behavior, contributing to 40% food waste in the US, as well as brief economic profiles of particularly vulnerable US cities.

Despite treating a morose topic, this film is remarkably upbeat and empowering. The skill in making this film is in the treatment of its sullen topic without buffeting the audience with disheartening images. Instead, the film emotionally immerses the audience in the severity of the issue without drenching viewers with depression or guilt. The work is persuasive and has true resonating power. Although it is short on providing numerical data, the few data that are supplied are compelling. Again, through its interviews with food banks operators and others, one gains understanding of this avoidable dilemma, and is made well aware of measures to counteract it. It is rare that a documentary be appropriately recommended for all ages, but remarkably this film accomplishes that. This documentary would serve as a good prefatory viewing for grade school children, who sadly may also be able to relate to the theme of the work. It can equally function as an eye-opening experience for adults.