Percy vs. Goliath

Percy vs. Goliath is a 2020 biographical drama film directed by Clark Johnson that tells the real-life story of farmer Percy Schmeiser, who fought against the agricultural biotech corporation Monsanto over the patent infringement of his canola seeds.

The movie is set in the small town of Bruno, Saskatchewan, where Percy (Christopher Walken), a humble farmer, and his wife Louise (Roberta Maxwell) have been cultivating their own variety of canola seeds for over 50 years. However, when Percy discovers that some of his crops have been contaminated by Monsanto's genetically modified Roundup Ready canola, he decides to sue the company for stealing his intellectual property.

As Percy's legal battle unfolds, he receives the support of his community and some activists, including the young lawyer Rebecca Salcau (Christina Ricci), who volunteers to work on his case pro bono. Together, they navigate through the complex world of GMOs, big corporations, and patent law, while facing the pressure and intimidation tactics of Monsanto's lawyers.

Throughout the movie, we see how Percy's fight becomes more than just a personal issue, but a symbol of resistance against the corporate greed and environmental risks associated with the biotech industry. Despite his age and lack of resources, Percy stands firm on his principles and values, refusing to settle for a quick settlement or compromise. His determination and resilience inspire those around him and demonstrate the power of grassroots movements.

Percy vs. Goliath features strong performances by its cast, particularly Walken, who brings a heartfelt and subtle portrayal of a man whose dignity and livelihood are at stake. Maxwell also shines as Percy's supportive wife, who provides emotional grounding and humor to the story. Ricci's character, although fictional, adds a fresh perspective to the legal aspect of the film and serves as a voice for the younger generation of activists.

The movie's cinematography captures the beauty and austerity of rural Canada, highlighting the contrast between the natural landscape and the industrialized farm practices. The score by Mark Korven adds a sense of urgency and poignancy to the narrative, grounding the emotional beats of the story.

Overall, Percy vs. Goliath is a compelling and inspiring movie that sheds light on an important issue of our time. It reminds us of the importance of standing up for our rights, our communities, and our environment, regardless of the odds.