Movie Overview
Big Boys Gone Bananas!* (2011) is a gripping documentary directed by Fredrik Gertten that exposes the intense power struggle between independent media and corporate giants. The film chronicles the real-life saga of Gertten and his producers as they face a massive legal and public relations attack from the Dole Food Company. The conflict arises after the team makes a documentary regarding a lawsuit against Dole, prompting the corporation to launch an aggressive campaign to prevent the film's exhibition. This high-stakes drama highlights the lengths to which a multinational entity will go to control its public image and suppress critical journalism.
Featuring Fredrik Gertten himself, along with key figures Alex Rivera and Alfonso Allende, the movie offers a behind-the-scenes look at the cast and crew's personal fight for freedom of speech. As a piece of biographical cinema, it goes beyond the initial lawsuit to focus on the chilling effects of corporate intimidation on the arts. Gertten’s direction is both personal and urgent, capturing the tension and absurdity of their situation with a keen observational eye. The production serves as a meta-commentary on the documentary genre itself, questioning who has the right to tell a story when deep pockets are involved.
Critically acclaimed, Big Boys Gone Bananas!* has garnered significant attention, earning 1 win and 4 nominations at various film festivals. The film holds a solid IMDb rating of 7.6/10 and a 77% score on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting its positive reception among audiences and critics alike who appreciate its courage and transparency. While Metacritic shows a more mixed score, the movie's thematic resonance remains undeniable. For those interested in true stories, media ethics, or corporate accountability, this is a must-watch. You can watch Big Boys Gone Bananas!* on Netflix to witness this unforgettable clash between art and industry.
