Initially, Fast Food Nation sounds like a rehash of the hit documentary Super Size Me. However, this revelatory character study from director Richard Linklater (based on the nonfiction Eric Schlosser book) takes several completely different perspectives on the ever-burgeoning problem of America's dependence on fast food.
Rather than using a single viewpoint, the story weaves its way through an array of people connected through a fictitious fast food restaurant called Mickey's. As the film progresses, each group slowly becomes aware of a different aspect of the darkness that resides behind cheerful fine dining institutions of the McDonald's and Burger King variety.
The dialogue may come across as more lofty and philosophical than what one might find in reality, but for the most part, the script is genuine and thoughtful. More importantly, every actor in the cast, from Avril Lavigne to Kris Kristofferson, delivers those lines with the intention of portraying every bit of truth in them. The scenes have been crafted with a raw, honest realism that brings the controversial issue of industrialized food service into sharp relief against the plasticized image they portray. Although the images may be a bit graphic for some, their presence is necessary, as they add to the gravity of the film.
All in all, it makes for a fascinating, effective movie, both in construction and concept. Switching between perspectives keeps the pace at a comfortable speed, and it does a nice job of bringing the facts of the story to light without directly pointing fingers. It may not be enough to turn you vegetarian, but it will make you think twice before pulling into the drive-thru window.
