I forced myself to sit through a viewing of the film Plant-Pure Nation, directed by (and starring) physician Nelson Campbell, son of T. Colin Campbell of The China Study fame. I say "forced myself" because Dr. Campbell might have done well to hire a professional to direct this film instead of directing it himself. Unfortunately, the film alternates between incoherently rambling lectures on the state of food in today's world and the clarity of a gripping story, which is Dr. Campbell's attempt to influence food policy in government. It's unevenness will prevent many from getting to its really strong and important message, which is, that governmental policy remains bogged down in lobbying efforts by large corporations, so that government at most levels is incapable of making a food policy that is good for people, along with Campbell's call for a grass roots effort strong enough to overcome the corporate lies, the greed, and governmental inertia.
Although often unfocussed, in its moments of highest clarity, this film is riveting. Especially, the segment where Dr. Campbell worked with a Kentucky legislator to try and obtain recognition for the science behind the benefits of a mostly plant-based, whole foods diet. The failure of the political process is awful and the reasons for it (lobby interests of industry) are clear to see. Dr. Campbell's personal perseverance is admirable.
It is a real shame that this film could not have been more professionally vetted, because its subject matter is of life-saving importance to the world. As it is, I don't think many people will be able to plow through it. The first gripping segment, in my opinion, was about 30 minutes in. And from there on, it was up and down. The case study in North Carolina was absolutely amazing--they found a few dozen people with dire health issues, provided them with three square meals a day (of a healthy, plant-based diet), and scientifically tracked the medical improvements and weight loss of the participants. The results were compelling.
For those willing to do the work, Dr. Campbell and his associates are also providing, now via the Plant Pure Nation website, a strong support network so that people can try out a plant-based, whole foods diet and experience the benefits for themselves. All that is admirable, and they seem to be achieving some degree of success. I do wish they had hired professionals to edit and polish the film more before releasing it. It started weakly, had great moments along the way, but also incredibly boring sequences, and it seemed to lack a coherent, over-arching narrative. I would have redesigned the beginning to get to the point more quickly--that governmental action is nearly impossible, and that a grass roots uprising demanding better use of food to prevent illness is required--and to stay on the message more diligently.
