About The Weight Of The Nation

The Weight of The Nation is a compelling HBO Documentary series released in 2012, which focuses on the serious health crisis of obesity in America. It's a comprehensive and heart-wrenching exploration of the impact of excessive weight on individuals and society as a whole. The series delves into the causes and effects of obesity, examines its major driving forces, and explores possible solutions to the epidemic.

Making/ Production

The series was produced by HBO in association with the Institute of Medicine, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Using case studies, interviews with our nation's leading experts and individuals struggling with obesity, "The Weight of The Nation" highlighted the facts and myths of obesity, showed its causes and consequences, and presented potential solutions to this pervasive issue plaguing the nation. It's a wholly scientific yet empathetic take on a pressing issue.

Actors

• Cindy Chau: Appeared as herself, providing a real and raw insight into the struggles of dealing with obesity.
• Bill Clinton: The former U.S President shared his thoughts and initiatives on tackling the obesity crisis as part of the documentary.
• Michael Bloomberg: As the Mayor of New York City at the time, Bloomberg discussed policies implemented in NYC to combat obesity.

Trivia/ Interesting Facts

• The Weight of The Nation is inspired by the book “The Weight of the Nation” by John Hoffman and Judith Salerno.
• The documentary series is part of an ongoing multi-format public information campaign featuring a website, community screenings, books, and more.
• The Weight of the Nation premiered at a special screening at the Institute of Medicine in the National Academy of Sciences in Washington, D.C.

Quotes

• "We're dying from the food we eat. We're killing ourselves with our fork." - Anonymous Participant
• "You can't outrun your fork." - Dr. Ruth Peterson, Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Music/ Soundtrack

• The emotive and provocative score of "The Weight of The Nation" was orchestrated by Peter Nashel, amplifying the hard-hitting message of the series.