WATERVILLE — “Modified,” an award-winning new documentary that follows a poignant mother-daughter investigative journey into the controversial world of genetically modified foods (GMOs), will have its premiere at the Maine International Film Festival (MIFF) this month. The film screens at Railroad Square Cinema in Waterville on Sunday, July 15 and at the Waterville Opera House on Saturday, July 21.

Award-winning filmmaker and PBS Food video producer Aube Giroux spent 10 years documenting the grassroots battle to label GMOs. “I wanted to find out why GMOs aren’t labeled here when over 80 percent of Americans and Canadians are in favor, and 64 countries around the world already require that GMOs be labeled on food products.”

Giroux was inspired to make the film when her mom, an avid gardener, seed saver and food activist, raised concerns about a seminal report by the Royal Society of Canada that sharply criticized how GMOs are regulated. Two years into the film’s production, Giroux’s mom was diagnosed with a brain tumor, lending urgency to their shared quest for answers. The story ultimately reveals the extent to which the agribusiness industry dictates our food policies.

“Modified,” which is also a visual celebration of food, farming and the love of cooking, was partially shot and edited in Maine. Since its release last fall, the film has been touring international film festivals, receiving six festival awards including two Audience Choice awards.

Giroux is known for “Kitchen Vignettes on PBS Food”, her online farm-to-table cooking show. “Modified” is her first feature-length documentary.

Giroux will be attending the July 21 screening at the Waterville Opera House and will be answering questions from the audience following the film. Details and tickets are available at: https://www.miff.org/film/modified/.

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