A couple of interesting films

Black Gold, showing at Watermans Arts Centre, Brentford from 10-14 June, is an honorable addition to the growing number of documentaries dealing with ethical and environmental issues. This concerns the coffee trade, with the focus on the plight of impoverished Ethiopian growers.

We follow one man - Tadesse Meskela, spokesperson for the Ethiopian coffee growers' federation - as he travels to different parts of the globe, struggling to get his message across. As sobering as a cup of the strongest caffeine loaded brew around, it will make you think as you drink. (2006, USA)

You can find out more about this film at www.blackgoldmovie.com

Adapted from Eric Schlosser's non-fiction bestseller, Fast Food Nation is a satire and (at times) hard to swallow take on the consequences of our society's love affair with the Mac Meal concept.

On the one hand, the film traces unsettling truths about fecal contamination, trampling of workers rights, the environmental toll of industrial farming and the various health and ethical ramifications for animals and humans alike. On the other hand, it celebrates the strength and vitality of the characters and successfully mixes drama, comedy and agitprop. It's directed by Richard Linklater (School of Rock, Before Sunrise) and the cast includes Greg Kinnear, Bruce Willis, Patricia Arquette and several other star names. (2006, UK)

It's had limited release but will be shown at Waterman's Arts Centre, Brentford from 24 to 28 June.

For Watermans programmes go to www.watermans.org.uk/ or call 020 8232 1010