The Yogi Foundation launches a new short film series, The Theory of Spice

The Theory of Spice, a new short film series narrated by Academy Award, Emmy, and multiple Grammy-Award winning artist Jon Batiste (We Are, “Freedom”) alongside Grammy-winner Rizo (Songs of Joy and Peace), and featuring original music from Grammy-winner Gaby Moreno (X Mi Vol. I), unearths the stories and vibrant personalities of Cardamom, Cinnamon, and Ginger.

The Theory of Spice is directed by Gilly Barnes and produced by Straight From The Source Studios, The Yogi Foundation’s in-house storytelling arm. It will be available to stream on all Documentary+ platforms in 70 countries, including their FAST channel and on VOD on 5 December 2025 at 8pm, and on the Yogi Foundation’s website. 

“I’m honoured to lend my voice to this series because it’s more than a story about ingredients—it’s a story about people, culture, and connection,” said Jon Batiste. “Travelling through India, Sri Lanka, and Guatemala, we’re uncovering traditions and histories that deserve to be celebrated. As a musician, I’m always searching for connection and soul in unexpected places, and this series captures that spirit beautifully.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with The Yogi Foundation to feature The Theory of Spice. At Documentary+, we seek out films that showcase distinctive voices and cinematic approaches, and this one truly stands out,” said Documentary+ CEO, Geoff Clark. “Director Gilly Barnes masterfully captures the spirit and culture of these extraordinary communities, enhanced by riveting narration and an evocative original score that makes the film unforgettable.”

The series transports viewers on a journey through India, Sri Lanka, and Guatemala, to bring these ingredients’ hidden cultures, communities, and histories to life.

“We are honoured to have worked with grower communities around the world to capture the stories, sounds, and images in The Theory of Spice,” said Lauren Wood, president of The Yogi Foundation. “We hope to inspire a sense of wonder and curiosity about where our food comes from and the communities whose lives and futures are intertwined with it.”

The films are the first original commission by The Yogi Foundation, the nonprofit organisation established by Yogi Tea. The Foundation supports projects in grower communities and in the creative, science, and technology sectors. Its vision is to make philanthropy a catalyst for new systems rooted in relationship, reciprocity, and care—demonstrating what’s possible when communities and ideas come together.