‘La Cocina’ brings a raw look at the food industry to U.S. screens
A new drama with a powerful message
La Cocina, starring Rooney Mara and Raúl Briones, is set to make its U.S. debut on October 25 at the Angelika Film Center in New York, followed by a November 1 release at L.A.’s Laemmle Monica. The film, distributed by Willa in the U.S., will then expand to the top 10 American markets. International sales are managed by HanWay.
A story of love and struggle
Directed and written by Alonso Ruizpalacios, La Cocina features Briones as Pedro, an undocumented cook working in a bustling midtown Manhattan restaurant. Pedro is in love with Julia, played by Mara, who is pregnant with his child. The plot thickens when money goes missing from the cash register, and Pedro becomes the prime suspect. But the real question is, who actually stole the money?
Ruizpalacios adapts Arnold Wesker’s 1957 play, The Kitchen, into a contemporary drama that highlights social and financial inequalities in modern America. The film humanizes the often invisible workers who keep the service economy running and culminates in a gripping climax. The film received rave reviews at the Berlinale, where it premiered in competition.
A different take on the food industry
For Ruizpalacios, whose debut feature Güeros won the Best First Feature award at the Berlinale nearly a decade ago, La Cocina is an “anti-food-porn” movie. “I wanted to show the other side of the food industry where expediency is more important than the quality of the food. It’s a metaphor for corporate capitalism,” he explained in an interview earlier this year.
“Work is the other main theme: the struggle for the survival of the soul amidst the unstoppable machinery of global capitalism. As Pedro, the film’s protagonist, puts it when asked to retell his dream: ‘You can’t dream in a kitchen.'”
A partnership for impactful storytelling
Willa, led by founder and CEO Elizabeth Woodward, focuses on films with social significance. Previous releases include Another Body (2023, Emmy Nominee, SXSW Special Jury Award) and You Resemble Me (2021, Venice Film Festival), executive produced by notable names like Spike Lee and Riz Ahmed.
“The ability to work with the team at Willa is a filmmaker’s dream, knowing they will take such incredible care of the movie. The intimacy and catered vision they have towards distribution and the partnership with them is one we look forward to,” said Ruizpalacios.
Graham Taylor, co-CEO of production shingle Fifth Season, added, “We are thrilled to partner with Willa to distribute such a ravenous film. Having worked with every distributor across hundreds of films, it’s exhilarating to see an innovative and consumer-forward model built for tomorrow.”
A mission to amplify voices
“Our mission at Willa is to increase the audience reach and impact of socially important films,” said Woodward. “We harness the power of impact campaigns, collaborate closely with filmmakers, and champion innovative and experimental distribution models. We are thrilled to bring La Cocina to audiences this fall. Visionary director Alonso Ruizpalacios has created a bold, original love story, a tour-de-force not to be missed.”
The film is set to be released on digital platforms in early 2025 and is eyeing fall festivals for an awards season push.
Dive deeper into the world of ‘La Cocina’
For those eager to get a taste of this compelling drama, check out the La Cocina trailer and immerse yourself in the story of Pedro and Julia. This film promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of love, struggle, and the harsh realities of the food industry.
Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts
As a cinema enthusiast, La Cocina offers a refreshing departure from the glamorized portrayals of the food industry often seen on screen. It’s a stark reminder of the human stories behind the meals we enjoy, shedding light on the sacrifices and challenges faced by those who work tirelessly in kitchens. The film’s raw and unfiltered approach is a testament to Ruizpalacios’ commitment to storytelling that resonates on a deeper level.
For TV series aficionados
If you’re a fan of TV series that delve into the complexities of human relationships and societal issues, La Cocina is a must-watch. The film’s narrative structure and character development are reminiscent of the intricate storytelling found in critically acclaimed series. It’s a cinematic experience that will leave you pondering long after the credits roll.
Music lovers, take note
While La Cocina is a visual and narrative feast, it’s also worth noting the film’s soundtrack, which complements its themes and enhances the overall viewing experience. For those who appreciate the intersection of music and storytelling, the film’s score is an integral part of its emotional impact.
La Cocina is more than just a film; it’s a powerful commentary on the human condition, wrapped in a compelling love story. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this cinematic gem when it hits theaters this fall.