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Photo courtesy Open Road Films
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If you have an appetite for a superior food movie then see "Chef" that opens at the Orinda Theatre on May 30. Just don't see it on an empty stomach, for the numerous culinary scenes will result in your stomach growling in the theater. "Chef" is written, directed by and stars Jon Favreau who knows how to prepare a film that Hollywood's elite would jump through hoops to be in. His track record as a director is the result of using star-studded casts in the films "Swingers," "Elf" and the first two "Iron Man" movies. "Chef" is filled with A-listers, including Scarlett Johansson, Robert Downey Jr., John Leguizamo, Sofia Vergara and Oscar winner Dustin Hoffman.
Carl Casper is one of the top chefs in Los Angles but the restaurant's owner Riva (Dustin Hoffman) is suppressing Carl's creative talents. Their conflict comes to a head when restaurant critic and blogger Ramsey Michel (Oliver Platt, "West Wing") plans his next review. Things do not go as planned for Carl and on a return visit by Ramsey, Carl is out of a job.
Carl's ex-wife, Inez, played by Sofia Vergara ("Modern Family") has always encouraged him to own a food truck in order for him to showcase his creative aptitude for cooking as well as having total control in his kitchen. Out of desperation, Carl reluctantly agrees and receives a beat up old taco truck from Inez's ex, Marvin (Robert Downey Jr.), who lives in Miami. It is the restoration of the food truck and the bonding with Carl's young son, Percy (portrayed by Emjay Anthony from the television series "Rake") that adds sweetness to the film, as they journey from Miami back to Los Angeles. Father and son teach each other the most important gift anyone can give someone - time. They are joined on the journey with friend and co-worker Martin, portrayed by Golden Globe nominee John Leguizamo ("To Wong Foo Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar").
"Chef" has all the right ingredients - comedy, solid performances and a sweet, tender well-written script. This is an excellent movie. "Chef" is rated R for language and some suggestive references and has a TRT (total running time) of 1 hour and 55 minutes. This film is worth a second helping.
Listen to Derek every Saturday morning at 8 a.m. on Real to Reel, 1450AM KEST.
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA