Culinary Cinema will open with Food, Inc., a spectacular documentary on the food industry

On February 8, 2009 at 3 p.m., the documentary film Food, Inc. will open the 59th Berlin International Film Festival programme Culinary Cinema as a Berlinale Special. This remarkable film premiere will take place at Friedrichstadtpalast and conclude with a top-class discussion and a true culinary treat.

In powerful images, producer/director Robert Kenner and the investigative protagonists Eric Schlosser (screenwriter of Fast Food Nation) and Michael Pollan (author of "The Omnivore's Dilemma") plumb the depths of the food industry – depths hidden from the consumer with the consent of governmental authorities. On the one hand: meat for all the world, endless cartons of eggs, vegetables that don't rot – and on the other: new illnesses, hunger revolts and unbridled environmental pollution.

Food, Inc. shows a seemingly unstoppable catastrophe, but reminds the viewer that there is hope – if consumers recognize their power and use it right.
"A discussion on food as the most important means of survival is long overdue. Many people are unaware of the food poisoning that occurs daily around the globe, how crop business works or how disastrous monocultures are created," says Dieter Kosslick, director of the Berlinale.

Following the presentation of Food, Inc., a panel discussion with director Robert Kenner, co-producer Eric Schlosser, Michael Pollan, and German food experts will take place.
To conclude the event, Berlin top chef Tim Raue (Ma Restaurants) will indulge guests in a delicious culinary alternative to Food, Inc.. "The film is excellent. It points out the glaring deficiencies in the industrialized system - without neglecting to present the alternatives that exist in fresh food. I was adamant about attending the premiere and thought something up for the occasion: a pumpkin, carrot and ginger stew with winter herbs," says Tim Raue.

Pre-sales for the event Food, Inc., including panel discussion and culinary highlight, begins on December 15, 2008: online via www.berlinale.de and at all theatre ticket offices. The price is 15 € (plus fees).