Why We Say “Plant-Based”—and the Films That Help Us Understand Why It Matters
At OPS, we often use the term “plant-based” instead of “vegan.” Not because we’re trying to water anything down—but because we want to open doors, not close them.
“Vegan” is a powerful word with a deep ethical foundation, and for many people, it’s a core identity. But for others, it can feel like a line in the sand. It can imply an all-or-nothing commitment, and that can unintentionally push people away before they’ve even had a chance to consider making a change. “Plant-based” invites curiosity. It says, “Come as you are. Start where you can.”
Because the truth is, not everyone has the same access to fresh food. Not everyone grew up with the same information. And not everyone is ready to flip their life upside down overnight. That’s okay. What matters is that we keep the conversation open—and grounded in understanding, not judgment.
That’s why we love documentary films. They don’t just tell you what’s wrong—they show you why it matters, how it affects real people, animals, and the planet, and what you can do about it. They allow people to engage with complex topics emotionally, intellectually, and ethically—on their own terms.
At OPS, we’re proud to have produced two of the most impactful titles on this list: The Game Changers and You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment. Both have reached millions and sparked critical conversations about nutrition, masculinity, identity, and the science behind our food.
Here are 20 powerful plant-based documentaries (in no particular order) that inform, challenge, and inspire:
Produced by OPS and executive produced by James Cameron, this groundbreaking documentary follows elite athletes, special forces soldiers, and scientists as they dismantle the myth that meat is necessary for strength and performance. With eye-opening science and cultural insights, it reframes plant-based eating as a performance enhancer—not a sacrifice.
2. Cowspiracy
This provocative film tackles the environmental impact of animal agriculture, uncovering how the meat and dairy industries contribute significantly to deforestation, water scarcity, and greenhouse gas emissions—and why major environmental organizations have largely stayed silent. It’s a must-watch for anyone who cares about the climate crisis.
By the creators of Cowspiracy, this film shifts focus from the environment to public health, exposing links between diet and chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. It challenges viewers to rethink the influence of big pharma and food lobbies, and to reconsider the role of food in healing.
4. Eating Our Way to Extinction
Narrated by Kate Winslet, this sweeping documentary explores how animal agriculture is destroying biodiversity, accelerating climate change, and displacing Indigenous communities. It pairs haunting visuals with a call to action, reminding us that food choices aren’t just personal—they’re global.
5. You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment
Another OPS production, this hit Netflix docuseries uses a unique scientific setup—identical twins eating different diets—to explore the effects of plant-based versus omnivorous eating. Blending personal stories, lab data, and cultural insight, it invites viewers into a nuanced conversation about health, sustainability, and identity.
6. Earthlings
Narrated by Joaquin Phoenix, Earthlings is a raw and unflinching look at how animals are treated in industries ranging from food and fashion to entertainment and testing. It’s often referred to as “the vegan maker” for its emotional impact, and it challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths.
This classic film focuses on how whole-food, plant-based diets can prevent and even reverse chronic diseases. Featuring doctors T. Colin Campbell and Caldwell Esselstyn, it empowers viewers with science-backed hope that lifestyle change can be medicine.
8. 73 Cows
This award-winning short film tells the emotional story of a UK cattle farmer who has a crisis of conscience and decides to transition to plant farming. His vulnerability and courage show that compassion isn’t just for consumers—it’s a journey for farmers, too.
9. Dominion
A follow-up to Earthlings, this Australian exposé uses drone footage and hidden cameras to document the brutality of modern animal agriculture. Narrated by several well-known activists and actors, it’s a graphic but powerful tool for awareness and change.
10. H.O.P.E. What You Eat Matters
This documentary takes a more uplifting approach, offering practical insights into the health and environmental benefits of a plant-based diet. Featuring experts like Dr. Neal Barnard and Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, it reinforces the message that positive change is both possible and empowering.
While not strictly about diet, this Oscar-winning documentary beautifully explores the emotional intelligence and sentience of animals. Following a filmmaker who builds a relationship with an octopus in the wild, it reminds us that animals are not “things”—they’re individuals.
12. Meat the Future
This forward-looking film dives into the world of cultivated meat, following the rise of lab-grown alternatives that aim to eliminate the need for animal slaughter. It’s a hopeful glimpse into what the future of ethical protein might look like.
13. Vegucated
This lighthearted yet insightful film follows three New Yorkers as they adopt a vegan diet for six weeks. Along the way, they uncover the ethical and environmental truths behind their food choices and wrestle with the social challenges of change.
Featuring interviews with former butchers, dairy farmers, and activists, this film explores the motivations behind adopting a plant-based lifestyle. It’s a compassionate, dialogue-driven piece that humanizes every step of the journey.
A UK-based investigative documentary that uses hidden camera footage to expose standard practices in British animal farming. It’s a visceral reminder that cruelty isn’t just “over there”—it’s in our own backyard.
16. Eating Animals
Narrated by Natalie Portman and based on the bestselling book by Jonathan Safran Foer, this film critiques industrial animal farming while exploring alternatives like regenerative agriculture and plant-based innovation.
17. The End of Meat
This documentary imagines a world without animal consumption—what would happen to the planet, to health, and to our relationships with other species? It’s a speculative yet grounded look at a more compassionate future.
18. Seaspiracy
19. Running for Good
Following ultramarathon runner Fiona Oakes, this inspiring film shows how a plant-based diet powers elite athleticism and a lifelong commitment to animal advocacy. Her story is one of grit, grace, and purpose.
20. Eating You Alive
This film compiles compelling case studies of people who have reversed serious illnesses by shifting to a plant-based diet. Backed by leading physicians and researchers, it’s both educational and deeply personal.
Each of these films offers a different lens—health, environment, ethics—but together, they tell a bigger story: that what we eat matters. Not just for ourselves, but for the world we share.
So wherever you are on your journey—plant-curious, flexitarian, fully vegan, or just starting to ask questions—we invite you to watch. To feel. To learn. To be open.
Because the more we understand, the more compassion we build. And compassion is what drives real, lasting change.
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