[4][5] The film outlines a global warming reaction by several nation states, where the powerful use force, economics and illegal mercenaries to take control of food and water stocks.

The narrative begins with the 2014 purchase of US-based Smithfield Foods by Chinese WH Group, which the filmmakers say gave away control of a quarter of all pigs in the US.

[6] Gabriela Cowperthwaite spent six years working on the film, after journalist Nathan Halverson reported on Smithfield Foods.

[7][8][9] Cowperthwaite was initially asked if the investigative process behind Halverson's articles would make a good film.

[14] In March 2024, Magnolia Pictures and Participant acquired distribution rights to the film, and set it for a June 14, 2024, release.