Robert Kenner

Robert Kenner is a highly regarded American documentary filmmaker known for his meticulous approach to storytelling and his exploration of critical social, environmental, and political issues. Throughout his career, Kenner has earned recognition for his ability to tackle complex topics with a nuanced perspective, often using investigative techniques and personal narratives to illuminate pressing global challenges. His work spans multiple genres, from environmentalism and corporate accountability to the exploration of historical and political events, establishing him as one of the leading figures in contemporary documentary filmmaking.

Kenner’s most influential film, "Food, Inc." (2008), premiered at the Toronto Film Festival to wide acclaim and went on to receive numerous accolades, including an Academy Award nomination and an Emmy Award. The documentary critically examines the American food industry, shedding light on corporate practices that prioritize profit over public health, ethics, and sustainability. Building on the success of "Food, Inc.," Kenner directed "Food, Inc. 2" in 2023, continuing to explore urgent issues within the food industry and their broader implications for society and the environment.

Before "Food, Inc.," Kenner received a Peabody Award, an Emmy, and a Grierson Award for his film "Two Days in October" (2005), which explored two pivotal events during the Vietnam War and their lasting impact on American public opinion. In addition to this historical documentary, Kenner’s extensive body of work includes "Merchants of Doubt" (2014), which scrutinizes the deliberate spread of misinformation about climate change and public health, "Command and Control" (2016), which focuses on the dangers of nuclear weapons, and the five-part series "The Confession Killer" (2019), which examines the story of a man who falsely confessed to numerous murders.

Kenner has also collaborated with prominent figures in the film industry, including Martin Scorsese on "The Road to Memphis," part of Scorsese’s "The Blues" series, and directed award-winning specials for National Geographic. His ability to address both global issues and intimate human stories has made his work highly influential in the world of documentary filmmaking. With his recent projects continuing to receive critical attention, Robert Kenner remains an active and important voice in the exploration of some of the most pressing topics of our time.