FAT CHANCE is the story of Rick's journey toward a new sense of self. Caught in a world where looks are everything, Rick aspires to thinness, but ultimately begins to question the real values of this world promulgated by media, fashion and diet-mania. Spurred on by friends at the National Association for the Advancement of Fat Acceptance, Rick comes to realize that fat is no longer something to despise, change or eradicate. It has become a true part of his identity, a fact of life to be understood, accepted and celebrated.

Funny and intelligent, this is a beautifully made film destined to change public opinion.



Grade Level: 10-12, College, Adult
US Release Date: 1994     Copyright Date: 1994
DVD ISBN: 0-7722-1223-6     VHS ISBN: 0-7722-0501-9

Reviews "One of the most remarkable pieces of work and art that I've seen in this field ever." Shay Harris, Milwaukee Psychiatric Hospital, creator of the Obesity and Body Image Program "By following the life of Zakowich... we are given an insight into what should truly matter to people - and it isn't size...I'm going to look at people, all people, in a different way. I highly recommend this video for all public and school libraries." **** Video Rating Guide "Funny, endearing, and, at times, quite moving... an excellent program... highly recommended. Editor's Choice." **** Video Librarian "It makes the essential point that our cultural hatred of and moralistic attitudes toward obesity are not only damaging but may well stand in the way of weight loss, even if desired or desirable...I would strongly recommend this film for showing to high school students, to employers who want to do training, to people in the medical, nutritional or therapeutic professions, and to a general audience...It is penetrating, witty, and beautifully done." Richard A. Gordon, Ph.D., Eating Disorders "A lot of the 'fat dialogue' in our society involves women. Fat is not only a female issue although you wouldn't know it from all the diet ads. I enjoyed witnessing a man's opinions and emotions on growing up fat, living with fat and surviving with fat in a skinny world. It's often taken for granted that fat men have it easier than fat women... Fat Chance shows that there are men out there who are hurting too and they can feel good about themselves... I highly recommend this film." M.E. Wood, Bella Online, Large and Lovely website