TIFF's Food on Film series will make you hungry
TIFF's Food on Film series returns for its second season this week with a line-up of delicious programming that is sure to resonate with foodies and film buffs alike. Screenings happening at the Bell Lightbox, one Wednesday a month until July will be paired with guest chats hosted by Matt Galloway (CBC's Metro Morning) following each film.
Without giving away any spoilers, here's a round-up of what's playing and who will be there.
Chungking Express (1994) (Wednesday, March 12th)
Set in 90's Hong Kong, this film by director Wong Kar-wai explores themes of love, lost and found against a backdrop of markets and noodle shops. It's a fast paced noodle-stand opus that offers both substance and style.
The guest: Peter Meehan, food writer and editor of Lucky Peach magazine will chat about the role food plays in relationships and urban living.
Suggested snack to sneak in: A can of pineapple and a spoon.
Today's Special (2009) (Wednesday, April 9th)
Set in the kitchens of New York, this film follows a second generation immigrant forced by circumstance to enter the family's Indian restaurant business and forgo his dreams of working in elite kitchens. It's totally a feel good movie.
The guest: Film star, best-selling cookbook author and authority on Indian cuisine, Madhur Jaffrey will speak on culinary comedy and the connections between cooking and culture. Stick around following the show to have her sign copies of her cookbooks.
Suggested snack to sneak in: A bag of chevda. Just try not to crunch too loudly.
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971) (Wednesday, May 7th)
The classic tale of down-luck Charlie who's dreams come true when he finds a golden ticket admitting him to a behind the scenes tour of the worlds greatest candy factory. The film is brightly coloured and oozing with childhood nostalgia.
The guest: Christina Tosi, chef, founder and owner of Momofuku Milk Bar and the 2012 recipient of the James Beard Rising Star Chef award, will chat about this classic film and share insights into her own approach to dessert creation.
Suggested snack to sneak in: Just bring a carton of milk 'cause Christina Tosi plans to treat audience members to sweets from NYC's Momofuku Milk Bar.
Hey Bartender (2013) (Wednesday, May 28th)
This documentary celebrates the serious profession of cocktail making, its history and the bartenders who have elevated the craft. It's an impassioned introduction to elite mixologists that'll leave you hankering for a good stiff drink.
The guest: Charlotte Voisey, award-winning British-born mixologist and host of The Proper Pour video series, can be sen briefly onscreen as well as in person to discuss the high-octane world of bartending devolve into new age of cocktails
Suggested snack to sneak in: A flask.
My Dinner with Andre (1981) (Wednesday, June 18th)
This film is almost entirely a dinner scene that captures a slice of life between two men sharing a meal and conversation. Nothing happens and yet it's totally engaging.
The guest: Toronto Star columnist and professional dinner party host, Corey Mintz, supplies food for thought after the screening with a talk centered around the art of entertaining guests.
Suggested snack to sneak in: Skip snacks. Book a table for two somewhere fancy, or head out for an Amaretto spiked coffee after the event.
Soylent Green (1973) (Wednesday, July 9th)
The sci-fi classic set in dystopic 2022 imagines an overpopulated world of unrest and scarcity. Get ready for the iconic ending!
The guest: Dave Arnold, inventor and co-founder of Booker and Dax will explore themes of industrialization, sustainability, and food nostalgia in this cult classic.
Suggested snack to sneak in: An energy bar...and be thankful for mandatory ingredient lists.
Disclaimer: The TIFF Bell Lightbox in no way endorses sneaking in food or drink to its theatres.
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