I've always liked Jon Favreau but when this movie came out, the idea of a movie about a chef didn't have much appeal for me. But years later when I had nothing to do I checked it out on Netflix. Wow! I wish I had watched it sooner! It's the story of a successful, respected but divorced chef who finds his career and personal life spiraling out of control, particularly his relationship with his 10 year old son.
Favreau was always an appealing actor ("Swingers." "Made," "The Big Empty") and then became an A-list director. "Chef" combines his talents. Not only does he star but he he wrote an amazing script and directed flawlessly. Every performance in the film is top notch from Favreau to Emjay Anthony as his son. Favreau called in some of his Avengers (Robert Downey Jr and Scarlett Johansson) for small parts and added stars like Dustin Hoffman, Sofia Vergara, Oliver Platt, Bobby Cannavale and John Leguizamo. Leguizamo has a lead role and was never better. Even Vergara, who seemed to be a one trick pony in "Modern Family," gives an outstanding performance and shows she's capable of much more depth as an actor. It's to Favreau's credit that he got so many top actors to participate, even in small roles, and got great performances from everyone involved.
This movie won't be everyone's cup of tea because it's not an action film, not a love story and not a riotous comedy. But it is a very interesting story about interesting people that feels real and makes you feel good after watching it. I initially didn't expect to like it but ultimately found it to be one of the most enjoyable films I've seen in a long time.
Favreau was always an appealing actor ("Swingers." "Made," "The Big Empty") and then became an A-list director. "Chef" combines his talents. Not only does he star but he he wrote an amazing script and directed flawlessly. Every performance in the film is top notch from Favreau to Emjay Anthony as his son. Favreau called in some of his Avengers (Robert Downey Jr and Scarlett Johansson) for small parts and added stars like Dustin Hoffman, Sofia Vergara, Oliver Platt, Bobby Cannavale and John Leguizamo. Leguizamo has a lead role and was never better. Even Vergara, who seemed to be a one trick pony in "Modern Family," gives an outstanding performance and shows she's capable of much more depth as an actor. It's to Favreau's credit that he got so many top actors to participate, even in small roles, and got great performances from everyone involved.
This movie won't be everyone's cup of tea because it's not an action film, not a love story and not a riotous comedy. But it is a very interesting story about interesting people that feels real and makes you feel good after watching it. I initially didn't expect to like it but ultimately found it to be one of the most enjoyable films I've seen in a long time.