It's a joy to see characters that seem real and don't seem like they have stepped right out of the pages of a fashion magazine or a gym.
Film: Chef
Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Padmapriya Jankiraman, Svar Kamble, Chandan Roy Sanyal
Director: Raja Krishna Menon
What's it about:
The remake of the Hollywood film by the same name starring Jon Favreau, this film follows a similar path with a few tweaks. Rohan Kalra (Saif) heads the kitchen that serves Indian cuisine in a Michelin-starred restaurant in New York. After a scrap with a patron who finds fault with his dish, he finds himself jobless. His ex-wife (Padmapriya) and son Armaan (Svar) live in Kochi. Before looking for a new job, he decides to spend some time with his family. One thing leads to another and soon he gets back on his feet with a little help from friends and his son.
What's hot:
The strength of Menon is adept emotional drama. He does a good job with complex characters and father-son and husband-wife dynamics. The film is a visual treat. Saif is in great form. Rohan is not wholly likable and yet Saif makes him appealing. He has always a flair for comedy and he is a ease in this role. Whether he is trying to match the skills of his wife's good friend, muttering stuff about him under his breath or telling his son cheesy jokes, his timing is on point. A throwback to Dil Chahta Hai is wonderfully played out. His difficult relationship with his father makes for some emotionally charged scenes. Padmapriya does justice to her part. Svar is a natural and makes his mark. Milind Soman's makes an interesting cameo, and Chandan provides adequate support. Musician Raghu Dixit's special appearance is memorable, thanks to the Shugal Laga Le song that stays with you even after you've left the cinema hall.
What's not:
The writing is weak. It doesn't quite become the film, it could have been. Rohan's easy acceptance to start a new culinary venture after a short spurt of anger, and his easy reconciliation with his wife does not ring true. In a food film you want to be wooed by the sights and sounds, the director never takes you on the food journey you expect.
What to do:
If you haven't seen the original, this one might interest you.
Rating: ***(3 stars)
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 "Bollywood, Film Reviews, Film Review, Chef Review, Saif Ali Khan, Raja Krishna Menon, Chandan Roy Sanyal, raghu dixit, milind so")
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