Although I’d heard of him I’ve never seen any of Anthony Bourdain’s shows. In some ways it doesn’t matter, because this is a look at him before he was famous. After losing a fellowship in NYC, the young writer (Dominic Sessa) heads to Provincetown in pursuit of a girl (Emilia Jones). Meanwhile, he ends up working in the kitchen of a man whose influence changed the focus of his life (played by Antonio Banderas). Ironically, Banderas is the main person in the film with any sensitivity or real emotion, which he plays quietly. The Bourdain character is given virtually no vulnerability…he’s just an arrogant ass. I’m not sure if it’s Sessa’s limited range or the way director Matt Johnson wanted it. The film is full of chaotic kitchen scenes that are more about the obnoxious staff than the cooking process. There are attempts at poignant connections, but the slow pace and redundant scenarios make it more frustrating than appealing. And not really much of an insight into the future chef’s character.  2.5 out of 5.0 stars
