The entire film feels like water boiling and boiling on a stove. You know it will eventually reach a tipping point and overflow. Everything is happening right now, in front of your eyes. But, guess what? You don’t need to worry so much; it’s just a movie. So all you can do is sit back and relax while the whole thing burns down.
The critically acclaimed film Boiling Point, written and directed by Philip Baratini, depicts the dynamics of a fine dining restaurant’s staff on one of the busiest nights of the year. Astonishingly, the film was shot in a single 90-minute take with little time for rehearsal due to the virus Covid-19. As if that wasn’t enough of a challenge for the actors, the script for the film contained no dialogue, only stage directions, and the actors improvised the words during rehearsals. The director himself wanted everything to be as free and natural as possible, and I believe he succeeded admirably.
Anyone who has ever worked in a bar, restaurant, or hotel knows how rude customers can be, how your manager can put you in awkward situations, and how even the smallest mistake can turn into a huge disaster. “Boiling point” is a true tribute to the unsung people who work in the hospitality industry. The brilliant camera work and smooth transactions allow the viewer to see into each character’s world throughout the film. The one-shot film format has found a very interesting plot implementation, making it impossible to become bored or distracted. This series of short “novellas” addresses important issues in the service industry, such as mental health, racism, and immigration. Although they are not presented as the main topics of the film, the director’s message is clear. The main plot revolves around the chaotic life of Andy Jones, the Head Chef (Stephen Graham). From his family relationship to his restaurant, everything in his life is in shambles. Throughout the film, the viewer follows him as he makes critical decisions that affect the lives of everyone in the restaurant, including his own.
So if you haven’t seen it yet, brace yourself for a lot of secondhand stress and anxiety. I won’t judge you if you need to take a break at some point. This film will not offer you any relief, but it will leave you with the aftertaste of a well-executed cinematographic dish.