You are here:

The Man Who Tried to Feed the World

The Man Who Tried to Feed the World

Representation Score

3.4/10

Limited

2020

TV-14

Director

Rob Rapley

Runtime

52 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

This documentary offers a nuanced exploration of global intervention by moving beyond a purely positive view of Western science. It successfully critiques the legacy of Norman Borlaug, providing a space to discuss the broad impacts of scientific expansion on the Global South. However, the film falls short in representing LGBTQ+ and disability narratives. Its focus on mid-century agricultural science leads to a strong emphasis on patriarchal leadership. Overall, the film's strength lies in its willingness to examine historical legacies and the tension between technological advancement and environmental sustainability.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The Man Who Tried to Feed the World have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on historical agricultural science and Norman Borlaug's life. There is no evidence of LGBTQ+ narratives or identities being included.

How does The Man Who Tried to Feed the World portray gender?

Fair

The film highlights the male-dominated world of mid-20th-century science. It centers on a male figure's influence, reflecting the patriarchal structures of that time.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Man Who Tried to Feed the World?

Good

By focusing on the famine crisis in India, the film addresses the varied experiences of different populations. It looks at how Western scientific efforts affected communities in the Global South.

How does The Man Who Tried to Feed the World represent religion and culture?

Good

The film goes beyond a simple hero narrative by questioning the dominance of Western science. It explores the long-term effects of industrial approaches to progress.

Does The Man Who Tried to Feed the World include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no documented evidence regarding the portrayal of individuals with physical or neurodivergent disabilities in this documentary.

Present on Screen

  • Engages with the diverse racial and ethnic dynamics of the Global South
  • Challenges the 'great man' narrative by critically examining Borlaug's methods
  • Examines the complex relationship between scientific progress and environmental sustainability

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and stories
  • Shows limited inclusion of female scientists or main characters
  • Does not include any representation of individuals with disabilities

Official Synopsis

The Man Who Tried to Feed the World recounts the story of Norman Borlaug, a man who not only solved India's famine problem but would go on to lead a "Green Revolution" of worldwide agriculture programs estimated to have saved one billion lives. He was awarded the 1970 Nobel Peace Prize for his work but spent the rest of his life watching his methods and achievements come under increasing fire.

How are these scores produced? →

Where to Watch

Rate this Movie

No rating selected
Use arrow keys to select a rating from 1 to 5 stars
Optional text review, maximum 2000 characters
Tip: Wrap spoilers with ||double pipes|| to hide them
0/2000 characters
You must be signed in to submit a rating

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!

Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.