Thrive Allen County will screen the 2004 documentary “Super Size Me” on the south side of the Iola square at 9 p.m. Friday.
The free film is a “fun activity for the family,” said Thrive’s Ruth St. Clair, who noted that the movie is appropriate for all, although it carries a PG-13 rating for some graphic medical information.
Viewers should bring lawn chairs or blankets, along with whatever snacks and drinks they’d like, she said.
“Super Size Me” follows filmmaker Morgan Spurlock as he attempts to sympathize with America’s growing level of obesity by eating every meal, for a month, at McDonald’s. He also tries to walk approximately 5,000 steps per day — about two miles — the distance considered that which an average American walks each day.
During the experiment, his health was monitored by a cardiologist, gastroenterologist, general practitioner, nutritionist and personal trainer. All were surprised how quickly Spurlock gained weight on the exclusive fast food diet.
At the onset, the 6-foot 2-inch Spurlock weighed 185 pounds and favored meals prepared by his fiance, a vegan chef.
Over the course of a month — and 90 McDonald’s meals — Spurlock gained about 25 pounds and suffered the typical concerns of being overweight, including indigestion, high cholesterol, loss of energy and depression.
It would take him more than a year to lose the weight he gained while making the film.
Super Size Me was nominated for an Academy Award for documentary feature in 2004.
Thrive plans ‘Super Size’ fun
