Before the Plate

Before the Plate is a truly poignant, engaging, and thought-provoking documentary film that delves into the complexities of food production and agriculture. Released in 2018, the film is directed by Sagi Kahane-Rapport and features the renowned Canadian chef, John Horne, from the prestigious Canoe Restaurant in Toronto. The film also focuses on the insights and experiences of Andreas Boecker, a knowledgeable professor at the University of Guelph, who provides a keen academic perspective of the agricultural practices and food production systems around the world.

Held together by a running narrative that casts the spotlight on today's food industry, Before the Plate looks to unravel the intricate journey that each ingredient makes from the farm all the way to the plate in a high-end restaurant. The movie asks a question both simple and complex: where does our food come from?

In Before the Plate, John Horne meticulously prepares a single dish at his acclaimed eatery. The dish is composed of ten ingredients, each item separately followed back to its point of origin. Each location the movie visits exposes a different sector of the vast Agri-food industry. This not only leads to local farm families but also uncovers the broader spectrum of food production, examining everything from 'farm to fork'.

Actor John Horne features prominently in the 90 minutes run time of the documentary, providing an up-close and personal insight into the culinary world. As an exceptional chef, he admits that even he didn't fully comprehend the extensive journey of food from the fields to the restaurant. His exploration within the film delivers a fresh perspective on what we eat and what it takes to bring it to our dining tables.

While Horne forms the backbone of the narrative, viewer’s attention is piqued by the insights of agricultural expert Andreas Boecker. His expansive knowledge of food production and agricultural practices adds a layer of richness to the film. Throughout the film, he provides a measured and sensible voice on the possible misconceptions and realities surrounding our food on a global scale.

The fundamental goal of Before the Plate is to break down the barriers between the urban consumer and the modern farmer, re-establishing trust in a system that’s been heavily scrutinized and often misunderstood. The film skillfully manages to bridge the gap between the hustle and bustle of a big city restaurant and the calm peaceful rhythm of the countryside, linking them through the common thread of food.

In each of the stages that our food undergoes, from the moment seeds are planted, through growth and harvesting, to processing and finally food preparation, Before the Plate paints an accurate, unvarnished, and intricate picture. It attempts to answer burning questions about GMOs, pesticides, organic and conventional farming through a balanced lens.

Additionally, the cinematography of Before the Plate is a definite standout, capturing the authenticity of agricultural life and the charm of restaurant cuisine, creating beautiful visuals that would surely resonate with any viewer. The effortlessly flowing narrative is deeply informative; yet it maintains a compelling and entertaining ambiance throughout.

In essence, Before the Plate is more than a food documentary. It's a film that informs, connects, and invites its audience to understand an essential aspect of all our lives – our food, where it comes from, the labor it entails, and the industry that surrounds it. As a visual spectacle and intellectual journey, Before the Plate will stimulate your mind as much as your appetite. A must-watch for foodies, environmentalists, farmers, and everyone else who cares about the food on their plate.