Initial statistics in this documentary focusing on women chefs say that less than 7% of restaurant owners are women and it is easier for women to become CEOs than head chefs. Debut filmmaker Joanna James explores this disparity in the culinary world through insightful interviews with Lidia Bastianich, Elena Arzak, Cat Cora, Mashama Bailey, Barbara Lynch, Sylvia Weinstock, Dominique Crenn, and April Bloomfield, among other well-knowns.
Mixing with these forthright interviews and footage inside kitchens, bakeries, and dining rooms is extensive footage and onscreen commentary from the filmmaker’s mother, Valerie James, the owner of a popular family restaurant in Holden, MA. James tells how she became the sole support of two small children when she divorced at age 29, talks about her financial difficulties, and discusses the sacrifices she made to achieve her dream of restaurant ownership.
And while Valerie James is an effervescent personality who is seen barking orders to staff and schmoozing with customers, and her story of growing up in the restaurant business as the daughter of a Greek immigrant who owned a diner resonates, it sometimes feels like the extended focus on James veers away from the film’s intent of presenting inequality in the food world.
Between these lengthy segments, the film spotlights the world-renowned women chefs, bakers, restauranteurs, authors, and television cooking hosts talking about their struggles, including sexual harassment, fundraising, job searches, balancing home lives, lack of professional respect, and other issues.
That the food industry is going through a revolution led by women chefs is evidenced in vintage footage of Julia Child and contemporary scenes inside Bastianich’s Eataly and other establishments. This seems well suited for foodies and others interested in pursuing a culinary career. Recommended. Aud: C, P.