Watch Gateway Bug, The

The Gateway Bug is an insightful documentary that provides a comprehensive look into the world of entomophagy – or the notion of insects as key nutrient source for a growing population faced with a multitude of environmental and social concerns. Directed by Johanna B. Kelly and Cameron Marshad, the film attempts to introduce viewers to the endless possibilities of entomophagy and how it could revolutionize the way we eat.

The movie's premise is simple - with the planet facing a food crisis caused by climate change, transitioning to the consumption of insects as a viable protein source is seen as a way to mitigate a potential catastrophe. Using food celebrity Andrew Zimmern as an entry point to many restaurants and markets, The Gateway Bug investigates the arguments and science behind this emerging culinary trend. Zimmern, who is known for his show 'Bizarre Foods,' collaborates with entomophagy advocates and Industry professionals to get a better understanding of the challenges facing this new food culture.

The Gateway Bug offers dazzling footage of insect-filled recipes and the bugs themselves, mostly harvested at farms and greenhouses. The filmmakers also present arguments and perspectives from different places around the globe, such as Thailand, the Netherlands, and Ethiopia, discussing how insects are helping fight hunger in developing economies with a small carbon footprint. One of the most interesting characters in the film is Daniella Martin, an author who makes the case for the nutritional benefits of eating insects. Her adventures with harvesting and eating insects are both educational and often hilarious.

The film also explores the wider cultural impact of the transition to entomophagy, with academics and social commentators discussing how the consumption of insects may challenge people’s deep-seated cultural attitudes towards what is considered edible. It’s enlightening to hear from individuals who have grown up eating insects and who do not hold the same reservations as westerners. It raises questions such as - When did we become repulsed by certain food sources that could potentially solve our problems in a healthy and sustainable way?

The Gateway Bug has drawn criticism from some for its uncritical view of the industry, particularly around how the mass production of insects could lead to a new era of factory farming. However, throughout the film, the directors strike a careful balance, highlighting both perspectives without favoring any over the other. They present arguments for why rearing insects could be more sustainable and ethical than traditional farming methods, while also showcasing how the unbridled exploitation of this resource could lead us down a dangerous path.

Overall, The Gateway Bug is a thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of how insects could potentially alleviate some of the world's biggest issues. It is a pleasant surprise that the film is not just about unconventionality and the shock factor but is conditioned on an understanding of societal issues. The movie is well produced and has a refreshingly positive outlook, neither sensationalizing the deep-science content nor underplaying its potential for global relevance. The film is a must-watch for all those curious about the future of food and the lasting environmental impact that could result from embracing this new culinary lifestyle.

Gateway Bug, The is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes.