Last Update: July 1, 2024
Due for a movie night? How about something with an hugely powerful, very evil villain, super-smart heroine, and mysterious chemical that might be poisoning the masses?
Check out Daryl Wein’s “Consumed,” a film that has nothing to do with sci-fi and is instead based on the contentious—and very real—topic of GMOs.
Companies like Monsanto and Intrexon—the organization behind genetically engineered salmon officially named “AquaBounty” but colloquially called “Frankenfish”—keep pushing for more freedom to produce and sell crops (and now animals) that are genetically manipulated to be bigger, tastier, and more resilient to disease. Americans are left asking, “What’s the catch?”
Critics argue that no one has really researched the consequences of ingesting GMO-ridden foods over a lifetime, and they’re potentially unsafe for long-term consumption. Even if studies reveal that they’re safe for humans, treating GMO crops with heavy weedkillers and pesticides contributes to the development of herbicide-resistant weeds. Over time, those weeds could evolve to become so strong that they eventually “choke” crops.
But the FDA has given the thumbs up to both genetically engineered crops and lab-grown animals—leaving consumers confused about who to trust.
It’s exactly how Sophie, the single mom at the center of “Consumed” feels when her son suddenly develops a host of unexplainable medical issues. The film gives an unconventional look at both sides of the controversial GMO debate—not through a documentary, but instead through a fictionalized thriller exploring the lives of individuals affected by genetically modified seeds, from the farmers who feel forced to plant them to the organizations that create them. It’s gotten rave reviews, from everyone from the Hollywood Reporter to Erin Brockovich.
Sounds like the perfect flick to accompany your non-GMO popcorn and movie snacks, right? Good news: Thrive Market members can check it out for 15 percent off—whether you’re renting for the night or buying to host a showing for friends and family.
Head to this link to rent “Consumed” for just $5.99 when you use the code thriverent; or buy it for the discounted price of $12.99 with the code thrivebuy.
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