Discover the power of plant-based living through these top vegan documentaries. Each film explores various aspects of veganism, from its health benefits and environmental impact to ethical considerations and the challenges of transitioning to a vegan lifestyle. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or simply curious about the lifestyle, these documentaries offer compelling insights and inspire positive change.
Vegan Documentaries
“Forks Over Knives” (2011) – “Forks Over Knives” is a documentary that examines the profound claim that most, if not all, chronic diseases can be controlled or even reversed by rejecting animal-based and processed foods. The film follows the personal journeys of Dr. T. Colin Campbell and Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn as they explore the relationship between diet and disease. Through compelling patient stories and scientific evidence, “Forks Over Knives” advocates for a whole-food, plant-based diet as a means to improve health and prevent chronic illnesses.
“The Game Changers” (2018) – “The Game Changers” is a documentary that explores the rise of plant-based eating in the world of professional sports. The film features elite athletes, special ops soldiers, and visionary scientists who share their experiences with a plant-based diet and its impact on performance, recovery, and overall health. “The Game Changers” challenges common misconceptions about protein and strength, presenting compelling evidence that a plant-based diet can provide all the necessary nutrients for optimal athletic performance.
“Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret” (2014) – “Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret” is a documentary that delves into the environmental impact of animal agriculture, revealing it as one of the primary contributors to global warming, deforestation, water use, and pollution. The film follows filmmaker Kip Andersen as he uncovers the reluctance of leading environmental organizations to address the issue. “Cowspiracy” challenges viewers to consider the sustainability of their dietary choices and the hidden costs of animal-based food production on the planet’s health.
“What the Health” (2017) – What the Health explores the connection between diet and chronic diseases, particularly focusing on the impact of consuming animal products. The film investigates how major health organizations and the food industry may be influencing dietary guidelines and public health. Through interviews with medical experts and researchers, “What the Health” presents a case for the benefits of a plant-based diet in preventing and reversing diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, challenging viewers to reconsider their food choices for better health.
“Earthlings” (2005) – Earthlings is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that examines the ethical treatment of animals. Narrated by Joaquin Phoenix, the film uses hidden camera footage to expose the cruelty and exploitation animals face in various industries, including food, fashion, entertainment, and research. “Earthlings” challenges viewers to consider the moral implications of their lifestyle choices and the impact they have on the beings with whom we share our planet. It is a compelling call to action for greater compassion and respect for all Earthlings.
“They’re Trying to Kill Us (2021) – They’re Trying to Kill Us explores the intersections of diet, disease, poverty, and systemic racism. The film focuses on the impact of unhealthy food options and food deserts on marginalized communities, particularly African Americans. It delves into how these issues contribute to higher rates of chronic diseases and examines the role of government, corporations, and the media in perpetuating these problems. Featuring interviews with celebrities, activists, and experts, the documentary sheds light on the social and economic factors that influence dietary choices and advocates for food justice and equity.
“Vegucated” (2011) – Vegucated follows the journey of three New Yorkers who agree to adopt a vegan diet for six weeks. The film explores the challenges and surprises they encounter as they learn about the ethical, environmental, and health implications of their food choices. Through their experiences, “Vegucated” highlights the transformative power of a plant-based diet and encourages viewers to reconsider their eating habits for the betterment of their health, animals, and the planet.
“Dominion” (2018) – Dominion is a groundbreaking documentary that exposes the dark side of animal agriculture and challenges the way humans perceive and treat animals. Utilizing drone and hidden camera footage, the film reveals the harsh realities of factory farming, animal exploitation, and the often-hidden cruelty behind meat, dairy, and egg production. Narrated by notable celebrities, “Dominion” aims to shed light on the systemic abuse of animals and encourages viewers to question the morality of our dominion over the animal king
“Seaspiracy” (2021) – Seaspiracy” is a provocative and eye-opening documentary that delves into the environmental impact of fishing industries on the world’s oceans. Directed by Ali Tabrizi, the film uncovers the dark side of commercial fishing, revealing the widespread practices of overfishing, bycatch, and the destruction of marine ecosystems. It also explores issues such as illegal fishing, marine pollution, and the role of global organizations in perpetuating these problems. “Seaspiracy” challenges viewers to reconsider their seafood consumption and advocates for significant changes in policies and practices to protect the ocean’s health and biodiversity.
“PlantPure Nation” (2015) – “PlantPure Nation” is a documentary that tells the story of three people on a quest to spread the message of the health benefits of a whole-food, plant-based diet. The film follows their efforts to introduce this concept to the mainstream, particularly focusing on a small town in Kentucky, where they conduct a groundbreaking experiment to demonstrate the diet’s effects on health. “PlantPure Nation” also delves into the political and economic barriers that hinder the adoption of plant-based eating and advocates for grassroots movements to bring about change in our food system.
