Killer At Large

Steven Greenstreet's cautionary documentary doesn't provide an abundance of revelatory new information, but it does reinforce important points made previously in like-minded documentaries like Super Size Me (referenced in one of the DVD bonus scenes). However, lacking a compelling protagonist like Super's Morgan Spurlock, Greenstreet utilises colourful interviews with a variety of health specialists and, um, Chevy Chase. Especially poignant is the story of Brooke Bates, the 220-pound 12-year-old who undergoes liposuction but regains the weight within months. Interviews with the family show the girl to be a delicate stress-eater coping with a troubled family, while her mother blames genetics. This type of mental state of avoidance becomes a focal point of the film. Killer at Large retains the good humour driving Super Size Me (crediting In the Company of Men writer/director Neil LaBute as "Fat Pig" in particular brings chuckles), which helps the relatively low-budget ($300,000) production. However, the shakier segments, like cheaply animated ones akin to the condescending cartoons showcased by Michael Moore, fall flat. The pan-and-scan formatting of the film becomes an annoyance as the film progresses, compounded by the amount of fleshy bellies occupying the space — perhaps this discomfort is intentional. Extras include a 45-minute educational version, as well as bonus footage of the film's premiere. This includes Chevy Chase's Congress testimonial against unhealthy school cafeteria food, and subsequent footage of Chase and wife Jayni being awarded... something (it's not made clear in the footage shown). Sometimes you just have to attach a big name to get things done.