AVERAGE USER RATING
Recently On Home
Featured Sponsors
Christian Living Resources, Bible Study Tools, Jesus Christ
"Super Size Me" Not a Thriller, But Still Terrifying...Continued from page 1
Annabelle Robertson
Entertainment Critic
This last point is particularly concerning. Not only does McDonald’s flood the television market with ads aimed at children (especially during key times, like Saturday mornings), but they also use playgrounds, Happy Meals and characters like Ronald McDonald to make the restaurant the place where kids want to spend time – lots of time. Eating there is habit-forming (especially if people are unaware of the dangers), but also, children who have happy childhood memories at McDonald’s, while eating and playing on the playground next to their parents, are far more likely to recreate those memories by going to the restaurant as adults. It’s good marketing that generates generations of future customers, but those same customers are growing more obese and less healthy with each passing year. Additionally, Spurlock investigated the way that fast food has infiltrated the school system, where it is the primary source of “nutrition” for millions of kids eating in cafeterias.
Spurlock has created a fascinating documentary that is full of facts, moves quickly and is quite humorous. His message, that we should be better stewards of our bodies and not allow the prevailing, almost overwhelming culture (of eating fast and badly) to tempt us, connects with Christian values. There are a few profanities and obscenities, as well as some inappropriate sexual references (including a nude shot as Spurlock is examined, although his genitals are obscured), so it is not for children. It is, however, an excellent way for adults to learn about this booming industry.
Although I’m not a huge fan of fast food, I indulge occasionally. After seeing this movie, however, I intend to avoid fast food as much as possible. During my two-day drive, it took slightly more time and money to find healthier fare, but I felt so much better – unlike my husband, who suffered from indigestion for hours after indulging in a fried chicken sandwich and shake. That only served to underscore Spurlock’s claims – and my conviction to eat better.
A good movie should provoke discussion, and “Super Size Me” will do just that. It will also lead to some significant lifestyle changes for many Americans. So watch at your own risk – of renouncing French fries forever.
