Fantastic Fungi (2019)
A breathtaking documentary that reveals the secret life of mushrooms and the vast underground networks quietly sustaining all life on Earth.
Fantastic Fungi - Movie Information
- Original Title: Fantastic Fungi
- Release Year: 2019
- Directed by: Louie Schwartzberg
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Documentary
- Age Rating (US): NR
- Runtime: 1h 20m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): August 30, 2019 (France - TP), August 30, 2019 (United States - NR)
- Alternative Titles: Champignons fantastiques (FR), Hongos fantásticos (AR), 素晴らしき、きのこの世界 (JP), Fantastische Pilze (DE), Фантастические грибы (RU), Fungos Fantásticos (BR), Fantastic Fungi (US), Fantastic Fungi (UK)
- Production Companies: Artemis Rising, Diamond Docs, Moving Art
Fantastic Fungi - Plot
A vivid journey into the mysterious subterranean world of mycelium and its fruit— the mushroom. A story that begins 3.5 billion years ago, fungi makes the soil that supports life, connecting vast systems of roots from plants and trees all over the planet, like an underground Internet. Through the eyes of renowned mycologist Paul Stamets, professor of forest ecology Suzanne Simard, best selling author Michael Pollan, food naturalist Eugenia Bone and others, we experience the power, beauty and complexity of the fungi kingdom.
Fantastic Fungi - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and discover the hidden world beneath your feet:
The magic beneath us
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Fantastic Fungi - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Louie Schwartzberg
Main Cast
- Brie Larson
- Paul Stamets
- Michael Pollan
- Roland Griffiths
- Andrew Weil
- Mary P. Cosmiano
Writers
- Mark Monroe
Producers
- Lyn Davis Lear
- Louie Schwartzberg
Fantastic Fungi - FAQs
Who narrates Fantastic Fungi?
Brie Larson provides the voice narration for Fantastic Fungi. Her calm, engaging delivery guides viewers through the film's exploration of the fungal kingdom, complementing the breathtaking time-lapse cinematography and the insights shared by scientists and authors featured throughout the documentary.
What is Fantastic Fungi about?
Fantastic Fungi takes you deep into the hidden world of mushrooms and mycelium — the underground network connecting plants and trees across the planet. Spanning 3.5 billion years of natural history, the film weaves together science, spirituality, and ecology through the voices of mycologists, authors, and researchers.
Where can you stream Fantastic Fungi?
You can watch Fantastic Fungi on Tubi TV and Plex for free (with ads or no cost). It's also available to buy or rent on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home — plenty of options to suit your preference.
Who is Paul Stamets and why does he matter?
Paul Stamets is one of the world's leading mycologists and a central figure in Fantastic Fungi. He has spent decades studying fungi's medicinal, ecological, and psychedelic properties. His passionate advocacy for mushrooms as a tool for healing the planet and the human mind gives the documentary much of its emotional and scientific core.
Does Fantastic Fungi cover psilocybin and psychedelic mushrooms?
Yes, psilocybin and psychedelic mushrooms are a significant part of the film. Fantastic Fungi explores the history, science, and therapeutic potential of psilocybin, featuring researchers like Roland Griffiths and Andrew Weil discussing clinical studies and the profound effects these compounds can have on mental health and consciousness.
Who directed Fantastic Fungi?
Louie Schwartzberg directed Fantastic Fungi. Known for his extraordinary time-lapse and macro cinematography, Schwartzberg brings the invisible world of fungi to life with stunning visual artistry. His background in nature filmmaking makes him a perfect fit for a subject as visually rich and scientifically fascinating as the fungal kingdom.
Is Fantastic Fungi worth watching?
Absolutely. Fantastic Fungi holds a strong audience score and has been praised for its gorgeous visuals, accessible science, and genuinely mind-expanding perspective on nature. Whether you're a science enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply curious about mushrooms, this documentary offers a deeply rewarding and visually stunning experience.
What is the runtime of Fantastic Fungi?
Fantastic Fungi runs for 80 minutes — a tight, well-paced runtime that keeps the film engaging from start to finish. It's the perfect length for a documentary of this scope, covering billions of years of natural history without ever feeling rushed or overly dense.
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