Sometimes the future is not all it’s cracked up to be, especially London in 2040 according to The Kitchen. That is unless you’re part of the rich elite – a class difference that has only grown and grown. The government has been working to shut down social housing and the kitchen is one of the last of its kind. Izi (Kane Robinson) is ready to get out of that shithole. Yet that’s much easier said than done. He has been saving up and is almost ready to move out of the kitchen and leave that life behind.
Kaluuya & co managed to create a powerful atmosphere in The Kitchen. On the surface the kitchen looks dull and gray. Seemingly sapped of energy and happiness. Yet right below that we see vibrant colors, laughing, music, and dancing. A group of people who find strength – even after the government tries to bring them down and kick them out of their homes. As Lord Kitchener claims, ‘They can’t stop we.’ Constant raids during the day don’t break their spirit. They stand up and support each other, banging pots to warn residents when the police are coming.
The script has a mix of humor and heart. The main character’s actions may be frustrating at times, but The Kitchen has its fair share of touching moments. Nothing in the film seems implausible, which is scary in and of itself. Robinson and Bannerman have terrific chemistry throughout the movie. The script never drags as we’re taken through Izi trying to strengthen his relationship with Benji. The Kitchen certainly doesn’t reinvent the wheel. There are similarities between many films and books that have come before it. However strong acting and an interesting script make The Kitchen worth a watch.
The Kitchen is streaming now on Netflix.