That Sugar Film

What is it about expecting a child that prompts middle-aged men with cameras to do reckless things? David Bond sought to disappear without trace in Erasing David (2010) and here, Australian actor Damon Gameau seeks to consume 40 teaspoons of sugar a day in order to prove that seemingly healthy, low-fat foods are as bad for people as the fast food that Morgan Spurlock tucked into in Super Size Me (2004). Gameau clearly means well and has put considerable thought into connecting with his target audience by including a musical number and guest readings by Stephen Fry. But, even ignoring the documentary's more obviously imitative aspects, this is far too gimmicky to persuade viewers to put down their soft drinks and pay more attention when reading the ingredients listed on packaging. Despite the facts regurgitated by various media-savvy experts, Gameau's experiment is scientifically sloppy, while his ingratiating smarminess does little to support his position. Given the shocking rise in obesity and diabetes prognoses, this unpalatable case is well-worth making, but the pill should be more potent, with less sugar-coating.