Fast food has become an integral part of modern life, but behind the convenience and quick bites, there's a world of stories waiting to be told. This curated list of 10 films delves into the drama, the struggles, and the often unseen aspects of the fast food industry. From tales of ambition and corporate greed to personal journeys and societal critiques, these films offer a rich tapestry of narratives that will leave you pondering the next time you order a burger. Whether you're a film buff or just curious about the inner workings of this ubiquitous industry, these dramas provide both entertainment and food for thought.

The Road to Wellville (1994)
Description: A comedic drama about the health food movement in the early 20th century, it provides a historical perspective on the evolution of food culture, including fast food's roots.
Fact: The film is based on T. Coraghessan Boyle's novel, which satirizes the health food industry.


Super Size Me (2004)
Description: While not a traditional drama, this documentary by Morgan Spurlock examines the health effects of a fast food diet, making it a compelling watch for understanding the industry's impact on health.
Fact: Spurlock gained


The Informant! (2009)
Description: This film, while not directly about fast food, deals with corporate espionage in the food industry, offering insights into the competitive nature of food production.
Fact: Matt Damon gained weight for his role as Mark Whitacre, the whistleblower at the center of the story.


The Big Short (2015)
Description: While not about fast food, this film's depiction of financial greed and the housing market crash mirrors the corporate greed often seen in the fast food industry.
Fact: The film uses unconventional methods like celebrity cameos to explain complex financial terms, making it accessible and entertaining.


Chef (2014)
Description: Although more about food trucks than fast food chains, this film captures the essence of culinary passion and the struggle against corporate constraints, making it a relevant watch.
Fact: Jon Favreau, who stars as the chef, also wrote and directed the film. Many of the dishes shown were prepared by Favreau himself.


The Founder (2016)
Description: This film tells the story of Ray Kroc, the man who turned McDonald's into a global empire. It's a tale of ambition, betrayal, and the American Dream, showcasing how fast food became a cultural phenomenon.
Fact: Michael Keaton, who plays Kroc, lost 20 pounds to portray the character accurately. The film was shot in various locations to replicate the 1950s and 60s.


The Menu (2022)
Description: While not strictly about fast food, this dark comedy-drama explores the high-end dining experience, offering a satirical take on food culture that can be paralleled with fast food critiques.
Fact: The film features a unique dining experience on a remote island, with a menu that becomes increasingly bizarre.


Fast Food Nation (2006)
Description: Based on Eric Schlosser's book, this film explores the dark side of the fast food industry, from the slaughterhouses to the corporate boardrooms, highlighting the human cost of cheap food.
Fact: The film features an ensemble cast including Patricia Arquette, Ethan Hawke, and Avril Lavigne in her acting debut. It was shot in Austin, Texas, to capture the essence of the fast food culture.


The Battered Bastards of Baseball (2014)
Description: This documentary isn't about fast food directly, but it parallels the underdog spirit often found in fast food narratives, showcasing the fight against corporate giants.
Fact: The film features Bing Russell, father of actor Kurt Russell, who owned and managed a minor league baseball team.


Okja (2017)
Description: A blend of drama and sci-fi, this film critiques the food industry's practices, focusing on a genetically modified super-pig, which indirectly comments on fast food production.
Fact: The film was produced by Netflix and premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. It stars Tilda Swinton and Jake Gyllenhaal.
