Seeing Through the Fence: An Interview with Eleni Vlachos

February 5, 2008

Photo by Jeremy M. Lange. Source: porchlifeproductions.com

Meat-eating is a ubiquitous practice through many parts of the world. While vegetarians are frequently asked why they eschew animal products, it is less likely to hear omnivores reflect on their dietary choices. Eleni Vlachos, with camera in hand and judgement reserved, takes to the streets in the United States to talk with activists and non-activists alike about animals, culture, food, and the many factors that shape daily consumption. We also travel with Vlachos to Greece, as she meets with her father and other family to explore these questions in person. What emerges is a set of intimate conversations that are at times funny and bittersweet. Those who have found themselves misunderstood by their families because of their veganism will likely see their experiences reflected in these moving and sympathetic family portraits.

First-time documentarian Eleni Vlachos offers a film whose ethical heart rests at the seat of conversation. Join us as she shares the challenges and rewards of making Seeing Through the Fence.

News links:

Download mp3s of the interview:
lower quality / smaller: part 1 (2.89 MB) and part 2 (2.94 MB)
higher quality / larger: part 1 (5.93 MB) and part 2 (5.89 MB)

Tags: Arts & Music

add new comment

Hey, I'm enjoying the interview

Submitted by Wendy (not verified) on Mon, 2008-02-18 11:52.

Hey, I'm enjoying the interview but I feel compelled to add that lab meat does not end all suffering - it will still require slaughter (though not as much) and there's something very freaky about eating meat made in a lab. I can't exactly put my finger on it, but it doesn't strike me as an ideal solution. I know that the current situation is even less ideal. That's an understatement! But still - there's something very off about the whole thing to me.

hi Wendy!

Submitted by eleni vlachos (not verified) on Mon, 2008-02-25 17:32.

hi Wendy!
Thanks for your comment. And for listening!

Here is the background info on the lab meat project I was referring to:
http://www.new-harvest.org/faq.htm

The FAQ above addresses your concern. "Meat" can be made without killing the animal according to the above information. And you're right that it might not end all suffering - perhaps nothing will - but the importance of reducing suffering is critical at this point, as you noted.

I wasn't touting it as the ideal situation - I think that, right now, trying to get the information about modern farms out there in an honest, thoughtful way is one of the best bets. That's why I think the "Adopt-A-College" program through Vegan Outreach is very effective and worthwhile.

Thanks again for commenting!

--eleni

I actually think that in vitro meat is the perfect solution

Submitted by Libertarian Girl (not verified) on Wed, 2008-04-02 14:11.

I actually think that in vitro meat is the perfect solution. I'm glad you mentioned it in the podcast. The main reason people eat meat is because they like to. When in vitro meat is healthier, cheaper, more plentiful, and tastier than the "real thing," people will eat it instead and animals will not have to suffer. I would rather everyone decide to be vegetarians on their own, but let's face it, is that really going to happen?

There will be a first international In Vitro Meat Conference in Norway the weekend of April 11. There is no conference fee.
See http://www.invitromeat.org/ for information.