Alonso Ruizpalacios' latest film, 'La Cocina,' is a thought-provoking exploration of the underbelly of the food industry. Inspired by Arnold Wesker's play, 'The Kitchen,' the movie delves into the chaotic world of an industrial-sized kitchen in a restaurant located in New York City's bustling Times Square. Rather than focusing on the glamour and allure of food, Ruizpalacios takes a different approach, shedding light on the expediency and corporate capitalism that often overshadow the quality of the dishes served.
Set in the fictional restaurant called the Grill, the story revolves around a missing cash incident from the register. The undocumented cooks, hailing from diverse backgrounds, become the prime suspects, with Pedro, played by Raúl Briones, facing additional scrutiny due to his previous troublemaking. Pedro is also entangled in a complicated love affair with Julia, portrayed by Rooney Mara, an American waitress who is not ready for a serious commitment. Pedro's world is shattered when a surprising revelation about Julia comes to light, adding further complexity to their relationship.
To prepare the cast for their roles, Ruizpalacios organized cooking lessons and extensive rehearsals, focusing on improvisation, for a minimum of three weeks before filming commenced. Additionally, each cast member received a copy of Anthony Bourdain's renowned book, 'Kitchen Confidential,' which offers an insider's perspective on the inner workings of restaurant kitchens. This helped the actors gain a deeper understanding of the chef's role and the meticulousness required in their craft.
The director's meticulous approach extended beyond the cast's preparation. The film's interiors were shot at Mexico City's esteemed Churubusco studios, providing an authentic backdrop for the restaurant scenes. Ruizpalacios aimed to create a communal experience, fostering a sense of camaraderie among the actors. Rooney Mara's intensity and ability to convey emotions without words made her the perfect fit for the character of Julia, grounding Pedro's volatile nature.
The film's soundscape plays a crucial role in enhancing its artistic commentary. The meticulous sound mixing, incorporating various voices, accents, and languages, adds depth to the movie's narrative. According to Briones, the sound work, along with the music, showcases Ruizpalacios' musical sensibilities as a director.
One of the most challenging scenes in the film is a 14-minute single take during the rush hour, resembling a complex choreography or a battle scene. Both Mara and Briones found the experience exhilarating, despite its difficulty. The long take adds a sense of realism and intensity to the narrative, immersing the audience in the chaotic world of the kitchen.
While immigration is a prevalent theme in the film, Ruizpalacios emphasizes that it is merely a backdrop. The characters' status as illegal immigrants serves as a circumstance rather than the central focus. Instead, the film explores their struggle to find a sense of self, community, and brotherhood amidst the demanding labor they endure. The relentless machinery of global capitalism poses a constant threat to their survival, as Pedro aptly states, 'You can't dream in a kitchen.'
'La Cocina' offers a thought-provoking and immersive cinematic experience, shedding light on the hidden realities of the food industry and the human struggle for identity and connection in a fast-paced world.
