Boiling Point
Introduction
The weekend is just a step away but before that I thought of exploring another film from the world circuit. And with that I finished watching the British film Boiling Point. While we are privy to visit restaurants seldom do we know about the tensions which escalate in the kitchens. One of the hardest jobs which requires a degree of hustle day in and day out is that of a chef or someone who is pursuing hotel management. It is a field which requires tremendous amount of mental strength to be on your toes all the time, especially during holidays. While we talk about mental issues and depression, I feel we haven’t discussed enough about job related mental issues even in films. And more so in the hotel industry. It is a demanding field both physically and mentally and this review would be a small gesture of thank you to everyone working in the Hotel Industry. So is Boiling Point worth your time, lets find out.
Story & Screenplay
Boiling Point follows the story of a head chef who wrangles his team on the busiest day of the year in a tense environment. The story gives you a glimpse about what goes behind the scenes in a overcrowded restaurant. The screenplay standing at just 90 minutes is taut and the drama moves at a breakneck pace. The screenplay is constructed in such a way that you are a bystander in the kitchen and privy to the drama which is a high pressure one. Not even a single second do you feel bored or out of place. The drama treads on a tight rope which constantly keeps throwing challenges.
The ego tussles to grumpy or demanding customers, and from food critics to even customers with food allergies are all key ingredients to the plot. On the other side, the pressure just keeps on mounting with multiple obstacles which are thrown in on the busiest day of the year.
After a quick round of introduction, every character is crucial to this plot. You as a viewer are in the thick of things always and there are times when you as a viewer will reflect on your actions at times in a restaurant and also sympathize with the workforce which relentlessly has to go about doing things perfectly day in and day out! There are genuinely tense moments as the film progresses as a thriller. The proceedings are engrossing through and through which will keep you hooked and booked. The tragedy at the end perfectly sums up the harsh reality which really needs to be discussed more. This is honestly a masterclass in screenplay writing if ever there was one!
Dialogues, Music & Direction
The dialogues are conversational but they are sharp and involving you as a viewer in the narrative. The BGM is sparingly used and so it adds to the authenticity of the drama. You here whispers in the background along with various elements like the sound of the spoon or the stove or utensils which was a brave way of using the BGM. Another unsung hero is the cinematography. There are long single shots which just don’t let the drama die down and the crisp editing just enhances your movie watching experience. Director Philip Barantini definitely understands the pulse of the people working in the Hotel Industry. But he is also able to weave a tale in the most effective manner which almost unfolds like a thriller with many twists and turns. The direction is just top notch here!
Performances
The performances are sensational. Malachi Kirby as Tony, Hannah Walters as Emily, Izuke Hoyle as Camille and Lauryn Ajufo as Andrea are outstanding. Jason Flemyng as Alastair, Aine Rose Daly as Robyn and Lourdes Faberes as Sara are first rate and they add elements of intrigue individually to their characters. Ray Panthaki as Freeman is just so brilliant and his outburst at the end is amazing to witness. Alice Feetham as Beth has a lovely character arc and she does a swell job. Vinette Robinson as Carly is such a natural performer and absolutely fabulous to watch through the various range of emotions which she brings to the table. Stephen Graham as Andy brings so many emotions to the table that you really sympathize with him. His performance is honest and sincere and he is phenomenal here.
Conclusion
Boiling Point has a supremely taut and gripping narrative that makes this film an absolute must watch. Highly Highly Highly Recommended.