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Deep Dive: Forks Over Knives (2011)

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Forks Over Knives
Forks Over Knives is a 2011 documentary that argues for the health benefits of a whole-food, plant-based diet. The film examines the work of physician Caldwell Esselstyn and nutritional biochemist T. Colin Campbell, who suggest that many chronic diseases, such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer, can be prevented or treated by avoiding animal products and ultra-processed foods. The film references the 20-year China–Cornell–Oxford Project, which links Western diets to various health issues, as detailed in Campbell's book, The China Study. The film aims to counter the narrative presented in the 2004 documentary Super Size Me, where the filmmaker's health deteriorates due to poor dietary choices. Instead, Forks Over Knives presents a case for improving health through dietary changes. The film's tagline warns that it could save your life, emphasizing its focus on the potential life-altering effects of adopting a vegan diet.

Why Watch

  • •See Caldwell Esselstyn's groundbreaking health research.
  • •Find out how diet impacts diseases like cancer and diabetes.
  • •Meet T. Colin Campbell, author of The China Study.

Did You Know

•The film premiered on May 2, 2011, at the SilverScreen Theater.
•Roger Ebert gave the film three out of four stars, stating it could save your life.
•The film has a 59% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 37 critics.

Perfect For

Vegan dietsChronic illness preventionNutritional science