This week (Sept 30 – October 4) the San Diego Film Festival had several screenings (and parties) that took place downtown at the Reading Gaslamp Cinemas and at the Arclight Cinemas in La Jolla.
I was so fortunate enough through my work with That’s My E to be able to attend some screenings.
Now, I don’t know if San Diego Film Festival had a culinary track last year, they certainly did this year. I will most certainly attend next year, especially if they have the Culinary Cinema again!
I have been looking forward to this for a few days.
The featured films for the Culinary Cinema were:
King Georges
Cooking up a Tribute
Both amazing documentaries. First, we discuss King Georges:
King Georges is a film about Georges Perrier, a respected, renown French Chef since 1967. Owner of Le Bec Fin, an elegant French restaurant in Philadelphia. Le Bec Fin opened in 1970 and closed its doors in 2010.
Here is a snippet of Erika Frankel at the Traverse City Festival in July 2015
During that time, Georges was (is, honestly) an award winning chef and amazing saucier.
Saucier is one who makes sauces as an art. A quote that sticks with me: “To be a great chef, you must be a great saucier” (quoted from Chef Bernard Guillas of The Marine Room- I do believe he mentioned someone else saying the same thing).
In the film, you see Georges being hard on his staff, not because he enjoyed it. Because, as he said, he wants them to be better. Watching the behind the scenes, creating phenomenal dishes, it is so sure to get your mouth to water. Words like “duck” and “wine sauce”, and learning the term “galette” and to not burn them unless there is butter on them and a very watchful eye. I love to watch a chef’s passion. Hard work, blood, sweat and tears go into running a restaurant.
As a blogger, food lover and consumer, I can only imagine the hard work it takes to create dishes for our tasting. I know that I don’t have the patience, but most certainly appreciate the Chefs who put their passion into their dishes.
In the film, we also learn that his Chef de Cuisine, Nicholas Elmi, became his partner, then when the doors closed, he went on the Bravo TV show, Top Chef and won. He opened his restaurant, Laurel, where Georges consults for him from time to time.
Here is the trailer for the wonderful film we watched today!
I learned about the Chaine des rotisseurs (and wondering why I am not a member!!) one of the oldest group of culinarians. Literally, the first foodies (I am so inspired)!!!
This was an amazing film!
I previously posted a post asking how you (as the reader and consumer) enjoy food. You should take a read to it. It definitely circles to this one.
After the film, there was a Q&A Panel with Chef Yannick Engerran and Chef Bernard Guillas, as well as Fernando Garciola and Tru Miller. The panel discussed food and wine pairings. The wine pairings were from Baja, mainly the Valle de Guadalupe. The winery, Adobe Guadalupe named after archangels. I need to make a visit south of the border. There are 150 wineries in existence. SO MUCH wine!!!
The wine tastings we had were Gabriel and Kerubiel. Beautifully blended reds. Smooth and aromatic.
Here is a photo of the panel after the first film. Chef Yannick came in ten minutes later.
L to R: Fernando Garciola, Tru Miller, Chef Bernard Guillas and Hal Small
Chef Bernard Guillas of The Marine Room
Chef Bernard is 1 of 2 French Masters here in San Diego.
Some great questions were asked: How do the chefs think how true are food shows to the craft?
Chef Bernard felt that the Food Network is a great platform to showcase chefs where Chef Yannick felt that it is good for those who cannot cook, but believes that the smell and flavors in the kitchen needs to stay real.
After the Q&A, we were guided to the hallway where we were able to taste some AMAZING delectables.
Chef Yannick – European Champion Foie Grasa and Maitre Saucier
Chef Bernard
Foie Gras slightly dipped in chocolate
My tasting with Kerubiel to wash it down.
The Foie gras with fig was amazing. It just MELTS in your mouth. I am so glad it is back in San Diego, foie gras that is. The sandwich, chicken with mayonnaise and something added, fantastic!
There was so much food to snack and pair. By the way, the Paoloni, a Chenin Blanc was added. Notes of honey, perfect to pair with foie gras. Both reds: Gabriel and Kerubiel were beautiful. So smooth.
I was so eager to get into the second film, I must have been such a bother to the volunteers.
I hope the Film Festival does something like this again next year. This was amazing and so worth the ticket!!
Directed by: Kishore Kumar Pardasani
Written by: Siva
Studio: North Star Entertainment
Runtime: 149 minutes
Genre: Action, Drama
Cast:
Pawan Kalyan as Katamarayudu
Shruti Haasan as Avanthika
Siva Balaji as Katamarayudu’s younger brother
Ajay, Kamal Kamaraju, Chaitanya Krishna in supporting roles
Katamarayudu is a Telugu-language remake of the Tamil film Veeram. This movie blends family drama with high-octane action sequences, delivering a narrative that is quintessentially rooted in southern Indian cinema’s flair for heroism and larger-than-life characters.
The story revolves around Katamarayudu, a righteous and fiercely protective elder brother who has dedicated his life to looking after his younger siblings. Known for his aversion to marriage, his life takes a turn when Avanthika, a poised and graceful woman, enters his life. The movie skillfully combines lighthearted romance, brotherly camaraderie, and intense action sequences, creating an engaging watch for the masses.
Kishore Kumar Pardasani delivers a visually grand spectacle while staying true to the essence of its Tamil original. While the screenplay lacks novelty, it compensates with fast-paced action and emotional beats. The dialogues, although simple, hit the right chords when it comes to showcasing family bonds and love.
Pawan Kalyan is the heart of the film. His screen presence and charismatic portrayal of Katamarayudu dominate every frame. Shruti Haasan offers a refreshing on-screen presence, and her chemistry with Pawan Kalyan adds charm to the narrative. The supporting cast, especially the actors playing the brothers, do justice to their roles, adding depth to the storyline.
The film boasts meticulously choreographed fight scenes, which are a visual treat for action lovers. Anup Rubens’ background score and songs elevate the emotional and action-packed moments. His mass appeal and command over action and emotion anchor the movie effectively.
The film adheres to a conventional template, leaving little room for surprises. At 149 minutes, the film feels stretched, especially in the second half.
Katamarayudu is a feast for fans of Pawan Kalyan and action-packed family dramas. It carries the essence of mass entertainment but doesn’t break new ground. While it caters to the sensibilities of Telugu cinema audiences, others might find its predictability a drawback.
Rating: 8/10 Fans of Pawan Kalyan and high-energy action films will undoubtedly enjoy this one, but those looking for a novel story might find it wanting.
“Do you want to watch a film with me? It’s called Marcel the Shell with Shoes On”
“What?”
“It’s about a little shell named Marcel who wears shoes.”
“…”
And that about sums it up! It’s the blob of a week between Christmas and New Year so it was the optimum time to watch a very surreal film recently added to UK Netflix.
Released in 2021 (a blob of a year) Marcel the Shell with Shoes On is about a one-inch-tall shell called Marcel who lives with his grandmother, Connie, in an Airbnb. Marcel usually stays out the way of the house’s various guests as he utilizes his only means of fast transportation (a tennis ball) and walks his pet lint on a string (Alan). This is until a documentary filmmaker named Dean, who is staying at the Airbnb, discovers Marcel and his unique lifestyle.
As filmmakers are wont to do Dean begins to film interviews with Marcel, consequently we get an insight into Marcel’s world both inside and out. Yes, Marcel is a stop-motion hermit crab shell with surprisingly expressive googly eyes but he feels very human. I was unsure about Marcel’s age and gender because he sounds a lot like Lisa Simpson, I did even check that Marcel wasn’t voiced by Yeardly Smith. But Marcel is voiced superbly by Jenny Slate. Marcel comes off as quite childlike with his wide-eyed optimism and naivety (he is a shell I suppose). Yet, like many children, Marcel will utter something so profound he will seem more of a fossil than a shell. When Dean uploads Marcel’s interviews onto YouTube Marcel of course becomes a viral sensation. Marcel reads the comments on his videos, using his tiny shoes to activate the laptop touchpad, which is just adorable! Despite his obvious popularity, Marcel remarks; “It’s an audience. It’s not a community.” Which just drives a stake into the heart of social media.
No, Marcel does not become a teeny-tiny-TikToker, he in fact uses the internet to find his lost community. The house used to be full of anthropomorphic objects including Marcel’s own shell family. They had been living in the house for generations, Connie herself came from the garage travelling by coat pocket to the main house; it’s why she has an accent. Among the community there are anthropomorphic pieces of cereal and because the internet notices this stuff; a tampon! An unfortunate event occurred and the community were accidentally removed from their home one tragic night, leaving Marcel and Connie on their own.
Being an A24 film I knew it would get deep. Marcel’s journey gives the audience a unique perspective of life, death, and community. In a modern world where we are more connected than ever but loneliness has been recognized as a universal health crisis. We could all learn something from this talented little shell and his grandmother. Be like Marcel and don’t get sanded down by life, stay connected to your community and know you are not just rattling around on your own!
It’s a beautifully poignant and quirky film. Despite its metaphysical and existential content, the film doesn’t take itself too seriously. Whether it’s Marcel making rope by winding together the pubic hairs he finds in the drain (he calls them ‘hardy hairs’) or sleeping on slices of bread referring to them as his ‘breadroom’. The film is painstakingly detailed and you can see its roots in a short film. It’s a delightful adventure that has something far bigger to say than its minuscule protagonist.
Five stars.
As an anime enthusiast and entertainment journalist, I’ve curated a list of the top five must-see anime series of 2024. These selections showcase the diversity and creativity that define the medium, offering compelling narratives and stunning animation.
Delicious in Dungeon
This series combines culinary arts with fantasy adventure, following a group of dungeon explorers who cook and eat the monsters they defeat. The unique premise and mouth-watering depictions of fantasy cuisine make it a standout this year. Kaiju No. 8
Set in a world plagued by kaiju attacks, the story centers on a protagonist who gains the ability to transform into a kaiju himself. The series offers a fresh take on the kaiju genre, blending action with deep character development.
Kaiju No. 8
Set in a world plagued by kaiju attacks, the story centers on a protagonist who gains the ability to transform into a kaiju himself. The series offers a fresh take on the kaiju genre, blending action with deep character development. Solo Leveling
Adapted from the popular web novel, this anime follows a weak hunter who becomes the world’s strongest after a mysterious system grants him unique abilities. Its dynamic animation and gripping storyline have captivated audiences worldwide.
Solo Leveling
Adapted from the popular web novel, this anime follows a weak hunter who becomes the world’s strongest after a mysterious system grants him unique abilities. Its dynamic animation and gripping storyline have captivated audiences worldwide. The Elusive Samurai
Set in feudal Japan, this historical series follows a young samurai who uses his agility and wit to survive in a turbulent era. The anime’s blend of historical context and engaging action sequences has garnered critical acclaim.
The Elusive Samurai
Set in feudal Japan, this historical series follows a young samurai who uses his agility and wit to survive in a turbulent era. The anime’s blend of historical context and engaging action sequences has garnered critical acclaim. Dragon Ball Daima
The latest installment in the iconic Dragon Ball franchise, this series introduces new transformations and challenges for Goku and his friends. Its high-octane battles and nostalgic elements appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers.
Dragon Ball Daima
The latest installment in the iconic Dragon Ball franchise, this series introduces new transformations and challenges for Goku and his friends. Its high-octane battles and nostalgic elements appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers. These anime series exemplify the innovation and storytelling prowess that continue to drive the medium’s global popularity. Whether you’re a seasoned otaku or new to anime, these titles are essential viewing for 2024.
Movie Review: Katamarayudu
You Are Not Ready for ‘Marcel the Shell with Shoes On’
Top Five anime in 2024
Mechanic Rocky
Nosferatu
Did JD from Scrubs Have a Dark Past?
You Are Not Ready for ‘Marcel the Shell with Shoes On’
‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ Will Leave You Breathless
A Brief Review and History of A Year Without a Santa Claus
Is ‘Kraven the Hunter’ a Total Letdown?
Comic-Con 2024: Arthur C Clarke’s Venus Prime TV series
Comic-Con 2024: Max Collins’s TRUE NOIR
Comic-Con 2024: Will Wight’s Cradle
Interview With Heroes & Villains Creative Director Doug Johnson
Thatsmye Interviews: Les Weiler on Henchin’: the Series
