Super Size Me: An Analysis Essay Sample

people around the world.

It is evident from street interviews that there is a lack of knowledge regarding nutrition, as demonstrated by questions about basic nutritional information like what a calorie is and how often fast food is consumed. These interviews may also lead to unfair racial stereotyping, as seen in an interview with two African American teenagers conducted by Spurlock.

From the outset, the documentary immediately enforces its purpose by portraying the unequal understanding of basic nutrition among Americans, emphasizing the importance of sustaining a healthy diet. The audience is prompted to question their knowledge regarding calories, the frequency of consuming fast food and whether they are sufficiently taking care of their health.

Throughout his 30-day experiment, viewers are aware that Morgan Spurlock's health will decline according to his perspective. However, the degree to which his health deteriorates is startling.

In the first five years of the experiment, Spurlock gaining 10 pounds is perhaps the most significant and alarming aspect for those fixated on fad diets in America. Despite the fact that the excessive intake of calories is the driver of weight gain, McDonald's food is now intimately associated with weight gain in the minds of viewers. The message projected is that if you eat McDonald's, you will gain weight. Spurlock advocates for a campaign that portrays fast food companies as something resembling monsters. Although it is easy to agree with him that these companies rely on obtrusive advertising to manipulate us into purchasing their food and engage in practices that can be deemed "unethical."

Disagreeing with him on nutrition terms is simple. McDonald's food is not inherently 'bad' - no food is. It is the frequency of

consumption and portion sizes that make this food harmful. Spurlock highlights this fact by mentioning how the 'small' size French fries used to be the only size available.

Despite any rare instances, it cannot be denied that the movie portrays McDonalds as nutritionally bad. The visual codes used in the movie mimic those used by fast food companies, incorporating bright, flashy colors, particularly red and yellow, which studies have shown can stimulate hunger.

The film's satirical commentary on fast food advertising techniques is highlighted by its garish visuals. A graphic depiction of liposuction is included, featuring unsettling views of the human body that could discourage viewers from consuming unhealthy food. Super Size Me follows typical documentary conventions, with filmmaker Morgan Spurlock serving as a witty and engaging narrator who offers commentary and rhetoric throughout the movie.

The documentary incorporates archival footage and interviews with various individuals, including Don Gorske, a Big Mac enthusiast, to showcase the sketches and commercials produced by McDonalds. Additionally, some scenes are presented using shaky camera footage to enhance the perception of realism.

Super Size Me is a film that encourages people to adopt healthier lifestyles by avoiding fast food and not supporting the fast food industry that profits millions at the expense of their customers' health. The movie employs an extreme experiment to illustrate Morgan Spurlock's perspective. (Supersize Me. Morgan Spurlock. 2006)