I Could Never Go Vegan, directed by Thomas Pickering, written by James Pickering; 2024, 97 mins
I Could Never Go Vegan is a new documentary film by Thomas and James Pickering, who set out to provide answers to some of the many questions that vegans often face, from “Where do you get your protein?” to “Isn’t free-ranging farming fine?” and “Does climate change really exist?”
The film dispels many of the myths that surround veganism through interviews with scientists, doctors, and the journalist and environmental activist, George Monbiot, interweaved with impactful graphics and shots of vegan athletes excelling at their respective sports. He also shows the reality of factory farming and slaughterhouse methods in such a way that the barbarity is obvious, without making you feel you need to turn away. Although the film is packed with information, the fast pace and snippets of humour (such as the many voice notes from Thomas’s friend that disturb his sleep) make it compelling viewing that is likely to appeal to audiences of all ages.
As one of the interviewees, Dr Shireen Kassam, says in an interview about her participation: “This film brings us hope where some documentaries may leave us feeling a little hopeless. It provides hope for the future that we can save the animals.” I hope that it will be watched by those who still believe they could never go vegan, as well as those who are looking for new answers to all those irritating questions.
I watched the film as part of the Oxford Population Health Festival of Global Health on the day before its general release. I Could Never Go Vegan can be seen in selected cinemas across the UK in late April and in May, including the Regal Picturehouse Cinema, Henley-on-Thames, at 8pm on Wednesday 15 May. It will be released on an online platform following the cinema showings, with further details on the film’s website.
Anne Orgée
OxVeg 