Super Size Me (2004)
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A filmmaker undergoes a 30-day experiment consuming only McDonald's food to expose the impact of the fast-food industry on health.
The story
Super Size Me follows filmmaker Morgan Spurlock as he undergoes a 30-day experiment where he consumes only McDonald's food. The film documents the physical and psychological effects of this 'McDiet' on his body while exploring the corporate influence of the fast-food industry. Spurlock's goal is to highlight the growing obesity epidemic and the health consequences of a diet high in fat and calories. Before the experiment, Spurlock is evaluated by several health professionals who warn him of the potential risks, though they note the body's ability to adapt. The film serves as a critique of the fast-food industry's role in promoting poor nutrition for profit.
Full plot (contains spoilers)
Morgan Spurlock undergoes a 30-day experiment consuming only McDonald's food, including every item on the menu at least once. He follows specific rules, such as 'Super Sizing' meals when offered and attempting to walk a standard amount of steps. The film documents his physical decline, including a 13% body mass increase, high cholesterol, and liver damage. He also experiences mood swings and fatigue. The film highlights the fast-food industry's influence and the obesity epidemic in the U.S. It concludes with a critique of marketing to children and a look at the industry's response to the film. A post-script notes that Spurlock later admitted to consuming significant amounts of alcohol during the filming, which may have contributed to his health issues.
- First release year
- 2004
- Runtime (minutes)
- 98
- Production countries
- United States
- Original languages
- English
- Directors
- Morgan Spurlock
- Writers
- Morgan Spurlock · writer
- Cast and characters
- Morgan Spurlock · Morgan Spurlock; Alexandra Jamieson · Alexandra Jamieson
- Genres
- documentary; independent; business; autobiographical
- Themes
- fast food impact; obesity; corporate influence; health and wellness
- Tone and mood
- informative; critical
- Premise and plot tags
- experimental; documentary; health
- Reception
- The film was a success at the Sundance Film Festival and was well-received by critics, though it faced scrutiny regarding the accuracy of its science and Spurlock's personal claims regarding alcohol consumption.
- Reported review scores
- Rotten Tomatoes · score: 92% · scale: percentage · review count: 171; Metacritic · score: 73 · scale: 100 · review count: 37
- Awards and nominations
- Grand Jury Prize · Directing · Win; Best Documentary Screenplay · Writers Guild of America · Win
- Production trivia
- The film inspired a comic book by Dark Horse Comics.; The film inspired the BBC television series The Supersizers.
Film metadata comes from the open sources listed in Credits & Contact. Catalogue details may be incomplete.
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