Big Boys Gone Bananas!*

BigBoysGoneBananas2011Poster

Big Boys Gone Bananas!* is a Swedish documentary film directed by Fredrik Gertten that premiered in 2011. The film explores the legal battle and media manipulation that ensued after Gertten's previous documentary, Bananas!*, which depicted the lawsuit of twelve Nicaraguan banana workers against the Dole Food Company over alleged use of banned pesticides. Big Boys Gone Bananas!* delves into the efforts by Dole to suppress the film's distribution and discredit its content, showcasing the power dynamics between large corporations and independent filmmakers, and raising questions about freedom of speech and the influence of corporate interests on media.

Synopsis

Big Boys Gone Bananas!* begins by recounting the creation and premiere of Bananas!* at the Los Angeles Film Festival, followed by Dole Food Company's aggressive campaign to halt the film's distribution. The documentary highlights the legal threats made by Dole against Gertten and his production company, WG Film, as well as against film festivals and broadcasters considering showing Bananas!*. Through interviews, legal documents, and media analysis, Big Boys Gone Bananas!* reveals the tactics used by Dole to intimidate critics and manipulate public opinion.

Themes

The documentary touches on several critical themes, including the power of multinational corporations, the importance of independent journalism, and the challenges of documentary filmmaking in the face of corporate censorship. It also examines the role of the media in shaping public perception and the legal and ethical boundaries of freedom of speech.

Reception

Big Boys Gone Bananas!* received widespread acclaim for its exploration of corporate influence and the resilience of independent filmmakers. Critics praised the documentary for its compelling narrative, investigative depth, and the spotlight it shines on the David vs. Goliath battle between a small film crew and a global corporation. The film has been screened at numerous international film festivals and has sparked discussions about corporate responsibility, media freedom, and the importance of documentary films in revealing uncomfortable truths.

Impact

Following the release of Big Boys Gone Bananas!*, there was increased public scrutiny of Dole Food Company's practices and a broader conversation about the rights of filmmakers versus corporate power. The documentary has been used in educational settings to discuss media ethics, corporate influence, and the importance of standing up for one's rights in the face of intimidation.