Watch Soul Food Junkies

Soul Food Junkies is a 2012 documentary film directed by Byron Hurt. It explores the African American community's relationship with soul food and its impact on health, family traditions, and cultural identity. The film begins from the perspective of Hurt's personal connection to soul food. Growing up in a family that followed traditional soul food practices, he was often served large portions of fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens. He explores the historical roots of soul food and how it came into existence as an integral part of African American culture during the time of slavery.

Hurt interviews several experts, scholars, and historians to get a sense of the nutritional value of soul food. His interviews reveal how soul food recipes have evolved over time and how they reflect the African American community's collective memory and survival.

The film further delves into the health implications of a soul food diet. Hurt speaks to medical professionals, nutritionists, and individuals who have suffered from obesity, hypertension, and other related health issues. It is noted that while soul food is delicious, it is often high in fat, calories, and sodium and that people who eat it frequently are more likely to suffer from heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.

Hurt explores how the soul food lifestyle is perpetuated today and how it affects African American communities across America. He talks to families who continue to serve soul food recipes passed down through generations and how soul food is an integral part of their traditions and cultural identity.

Moreover, the filmmaker discusses how the commercialization of soul food has resulted in unhealthy versions of soul food, that are often industrially produced, and sold in fast food chains.

The documentary film also looks into the psychological and emotive connection to soul food. Hurt captures the cultural significance of soul food through intimate conversations with several African American families. The film demonstrates how soul food provides a sense of belonging, comfort, and sociability in the African American communities. It also explores how the exclusion of soul food from the dinner table can cause tension, discomfort and feel like an attack on cultural identity.

In conclusion, Soul Food Junkies is a thought-provoking and powerful exploration of cultural identity, food traditions, and the health implications of soul food. The film invites viewers to consider these issues within the context of history, culture, and personal understanding. Through its interviews and personal stories, the film highlights the complexities surrounding the soul food debate and encourages the audience to reflect on their relationship with food, culture, and health.

Soul Food Junkies is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 4 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.