Chef

“Chef” is the brainchild and creation of the very talented Jon Favreau who produced, directed, wrote and stars in this film about a chef, his relationship with his son, his ex-wife and the food he loves to cook. In addition to Mr. Favreau, the film also stars Sofia Vergara, Scarlett Johansson, Bobby Cannavale, Dustin Hoffman, John Leguizamo, Robert Downey Jr., and a soundtrack that will make the viewer truly enjoy the intensity of this salsa musical journey. Almost 2 hours in length the film speeds along on its merry way through the spirited and improvisational style of its director who quickly shows us that simple uncomplicated themes well written and performed can make for more than adequate entertainment. This is a film where you simply sit back in your chair, relax and watch this feel good story turn out as predicted but with humor, pathos and culinary delights filling the screen in between. I give the film 3 stars and urge that it be seen by vegans and meat lovers alike for food, comedy and music make this film truly an enjoyable experience.

The Lunchbox

“The Lunchbox” is an Indian film starring Irrfran Khan and Mimrat Kaur. Directed by Ritash Batra. The film got rave reviews from the major papers and periodicals as well as some word of mouth recommendations from people we know. The question I must ask is “why?” This is one of those films where a great idea is executed poorly, mostly because of the poor writing and the illogical circumstances that take place and the difficulty in trying to follow exactly what the characters are and will be doing. In spite of a few dozes during the film, I was sorry to see the credits come on so rapidly because it left me in the cloud of  not knowing how the characters resolve or don’t resolve their issues. I give the film 2 stars and hope that those who do see it will get more out of it than I did.