Watch Fermented

Fermented is a documentary film that explores the transformative powers of fermentation in the realm of food and beverages. The movie is directed by Jonathan Cianfrani and produced by Edward Lee, who is also one of the main personalities featured in the film. The other notable personalities include Sandor Katz, Soyoung Scanlan, Nick Floyd, and Chad Robertson, all of whom are experts in various aspects of fermentation.

The film follows the journey of Edward Lee, a Korean-American chef based in Louisville, Kentucky, as he explores the art and science of fermentation. Lee is a curious and passionate protagonist who is driven by a quest to understand the secrets of fermentation and how they can be used to transform everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Along the way, he meets with other fermentation experts who share their knowledge and insights, and who help him to discover the beauty and complexity of this ancient craft.

The film is divided into several chapters, each of which focuses on a different aspect of fermentation. The first chapter explores the history and cultural significance of fermentation, tracing its roots back to ancient civilizations and examining its role in various culinary traditions around the world. Lee visits a traditional Korean village where he learns about the importance of fermentation in Korean cuisine, and he also explores the role of fermentation in other cultural contexts, such as Japanese sake and German sourdough bread.

The second chapter focuses on the science of fermentation, delving into the microbiological processes that give rise to the delicious flavors and textures of fermented foods and drinks. Lee visits Sandor Katz, a renowned fermentation expert and author, who provides a detailed explanation of the various types of microbes involved in fermentation and how they interact with different ingredients. Lee also experiments with various fermentation techniques, such as sourdough bread-making and pickling, and observes how different conditions and ingredients can affect the final product.

The third chapter examines the cultural and social impact of fermentation, exploring how it can foster community-building and promote environmental sustainability. Lee visits Soyoung Scanlan, the founder of the Wild-Fermentation Korean Food Academy, who teaches traditional Korean fermentation techniques to a new generation of chefs and food enthusiasts. He also meets Nick Floyd, the founder of Three Floyds Brewing, who shares his philosophy of brewing beer with locally sourced ingredients and using sustainable practices.

The final chapter of the film focuses on the creative possibilities of fermentation, showcasing some of the innovative dishes and drinks that can be created using fermented ingredients. Lee visits Chad Robertson, the founder of Tartine Bakery in San Francisco, who creates artisanal breads that are renowned for their complexity of flavor and texture. Lee also experiments with fermenting unusual ingredients, such as coffee beans and chocolate, and explores the potential for fermentation to transform the culinary world.

Overall, Fermented is a visually stunning and intellectually engaging documentary that will appeal to food lovers, scientists, and culture enthusiasts alike. It showcases the transformative power of fermentation, highlighting its role as a bridge between the past and the future of food and drink. Whether you are a seasoned fermenter or a curious beginner, this film is sure to inspire you to explore the fascinating world of fermentation.