Forks Over Knives (2011)

Heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Three of the western world’s largest silent killers. But how can we prevent or even reverse some of the effects of these afflictions? That’s the crux of documentary Forks over Knives which – through a combination of medical professional testimonials, patient studies and statistics – provides the compelling case that a vegan lifestyle is the way forward.

Described by critic Roger Ebert as “a film that can save your life”, the documentary opens with some alarming statistics regarding obesity and prescription drug-taking.

This provocative study interweaves the work of Dr. T. Colin Campbell and Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn with additional medical studies to demonstrate the link between animal produce and degenerative diseases. Campbell’s China-Cornell-Oxford project takes centre stage demonstrating statistics linking these diseases with higher consumption of animal protein and dairy products.

Narrated and starring independent film-maker Lee Fulkerson, multiple vegan-converts preach the virtues of switching to a new plant-based way of life.

The documentary is presented in an engaging package with statements from both sides of the debate given airtime as well as explanations of the science behind the medical beliefs of these professionals.

Despite some dubious quotes from ancient proverbs and long-disproved medical eras, the documentary does offer some hard to swallow findings supported by eye-opening scientific explanation such as why we find it so easy to gorge on unhealthy, guilt-ridden food.

Many figures have come out in support of the ideas Forks over Knives presents, including Oprah Winfrey and Katy Perry, and it’s easy to see why.

Despite cases where patients have removed themselves from diabetes medication ringing some alarm bells, the message that our diet plays a larger role than we believe in beating these diseases resonates clearly and will have you thinking twice before your next beefburger and full-fat cola.