Director: Jon Favreau
Stars: Jon Favreau, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson, John Leguizamo, Dustin Hoffman, Sofia Vergara
Running time: 114 minutes
Certificate: 15
Jon Favreau serves up a feast in his latest release, CHEF and has created a stunning film about family, friendship and passion. Be warned; don’t watch this film without a few snacks, never have I been more jealous of Scarlett Johansson then when watching her eat a mouth-watering bowl of pasta. Serving up a sumptuous feast of delightful treats, it’s worth watching time and again.
CHEF, as the name suggests focuses on Chef Carl Casper (Favreau), a culinary star striving to voice his ingenuity and passion for food. Feeling defeated after a bad review and the constant nagging from restaurant boss Riva (Dustin Hoffman), Casper soon finds himself in a quandary. He is jobless, struggling to play the role of a father and is left wounded by the criticism. Casper soon finds himself agreeing to take a trip with ex-wife Inez (Sofia Vergara) and young son Percy (Emjay Anthony) and starts to rediscover his love for food and is inspired to take the lead in sharing that passion with local people. Casper’s journey begins with an old food truck, which helps him reconnect with his son and ignite his passion to create great food. Percy (Emjay Anthony) plays a major role in helping his Dad build an online following, social media is the major catalyst in spurring the films narrative.
The relationship between Casper and Percy stands out, not only is it relatable but the partnership between the two adds to the charm of the film. The father and son connection adds to the feel-good factor of the movie and helps add depth to what could have been a shallow story.
The film’s casting is great, with a few familiar faces providing cameo roles. Favreau’s directing of IRON MAN helped in securing an appearance from Robert Downey Jr. and Scarlett Johansson. Sofia Vergara adds a Latin spice that really brings to life the fiery nature of the film’s narrative. However, Emjay Anthony is a stand-out star, Emjay is certainly a talented young boy and CHEF has provided him with a great platform and introduction for his talent.
Favreau’s writing and direction is on point, with so much love detailed throughout. There are plenty of laughs and feel-good moments that make this film a must-have. It also delights in many ways; lovingly crafted it displays a charm and vibrancy that is utterly engaging. Favreau expertly crafts a film that doesn’t shy away, the lingering shots of food as it is being prepared make for envious viewing but help viewers indulge in a world that the director creates. However, the loving relationships that blossom are handled so delicately that it’s easy to feel invested in Casper’s journey and you have a desire to see him succeed.
The film’s narrative is never so over indulgent and sickly, instead it provides a wholesome and satisfying display. The DVD offers a few extra treats in the form of deleted scenes and audio commentary by Jon Favreau and Roy Choi. This is definitely a recommended purchase!
[usr=4] CHEF is available for purchase now!
