Watch The Magic of Mushrooms

The Magic of Mushrooms is a 2014 documentary film that chronicles the fascinating world of mushrooms and the role they play in our planet's ecology. The film is presented and narrated by Richard Fortey, a well-known British paleontologist, writer, and television presenter. The movie opens with Fortey explaining the importance that mushrooms have in the soil beneath our feet. He explains how mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of fungi that live in the underground network of mycelium, and how these fungi play a crucial role in breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients, forming a symbiotic relationship with trees and other plants. We see stunning shots of the intricate web of mycelium underneath the soil, as well as the fruiting bodies of many different types of mushrooms.

The documentary then takes us on a journey through the world of fungi, exploring the various types of mushrooms that exist and their unique characteristics. Fortey takes us through a variety of habitats and regions, each with their own distinct types of fungi, including the lush forests of British Columbia, the ancient woodlands of the United Kingdom, the deserts of Arizona, and the rainforests of Malaysia.

Throughout the film, we meet a range of experts, from mycologists and botanists to chefs and enthusiasts, who share their love and knowledge of the world of fungi. We see how mushrooms have been used for food and medicine throughout history, and how they are still being used in traditional ways today. We also see how modern science is beginning to uncover the incredible potential of mushrooms, including their use in medicine, bioremediation, and even as a sustainable alternative to plastic.

One of the highlights of the movie is the exploration of the relationship between mushrooms and human consciousness. We learn about the historical use of psilocybin-containing mushrooms in religious and spiritual practices around the world, and hear from researchers who are now investigating the potential therapeutic benefits of these mushrooms for a range of mental health conditions.

Throughout the film, Fortey intersperses stunning visuals of the mushrooms themselves, their environments, and the people working with them. We see time-lapse footage of mushrooms growing, microscopic images of spores, and slow-motion shots of mushrooms releasing their spores into the air. The cinematography is truly breathtaking, making the film a visual feast for the eyes.

Overall, The Magic of Mushrooms is a mesmerizing and informative journey through the world of fungi that will leave viewers with a new appreciation for the incredible complexity and importance of these organisms. Whether you are a mycology enthusiast or simply curious about the natural world, this documentary is a must-watch.