Available to stream on Netflix from today, “Big Chicken: A Fast Food Conspiracy” marks British comedian Mo Gilligan’s first feature documentary for the platform. In the film, he investigates our global obsession with fried chicken and uncovers the hidden realities behind one of the world’s most popular fast-food favourites.

Produced by the award-winning production company Mindhouse, known for “Louis Theroux: Inside the Manosphere”, the documentary follows Mo Gilligan on an eye-opening journey from South London to the United States. Along the way, he explores the historical origins of fried chicken and the social, economic and industrial forces driving its mass consumption. 

A self-proclaimed lover of fried chicken, Mo also puts his own body to the test in a bold experiment, eating fried chicken three times a day for 28 days straight. Over the course of the month, he investigates the fast-food industry and large-scale food production, as well as their impact on our health, the planet and the way we eat.

The documentary also sees Mo confront the cultural stereotypes associated with fried chicken, examining how perceptions of the dish have developed over time and how they continue to shape its representation in popular culture and advertising. As he uncovers new and sometimes unsettling realities, Mo is forced to reconsider his own relationship with his favourite takeaway.

“Big Chicken: A Fast Food Conspiracy” encourages viewers to think more deeply about where our food comes from and to take a more informed approach to the choices we make about what we eat. The documentary is directed by Liana Stewart, with Aloke Devichand and Nancy Strang serving as Executive Producers.

Latvian audiences will also have the chance to see Mo Gilligan live this year. The three-time BAFTA TV Award winner will perform at Palladium Riga on 14 November with his latest stand-up show, “The Mo You Know”. Tickets are available via Biļešu Serviss.