Today's Special

Today's Special is a delightful and heartwarming American comedy-drama film released in 2009 that beautifully encapsulates the cross-cultural experiences of an Indian-American chef. The film showcases an engaging storyline that unfolds in the bustling cityscape of New York City. Director David Kaplan stitches an intricate tapestry of culture, relationships, and self-realization against the backdrop of the tantalizing world of Indian cuisine.

The central character of the film is Samir, played impressively by Aasif Mandvi, a popular television comedy actor known for his work on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. Samir plays a sous chef at an upscale French restaurant in Manhattan who dreams of becoming a head chef. He believes that a promotion is within his reach, but his dreams are derailed when the position is given to a less competent chef. Frustrated, he resigns and thinks of studying culinary arts in Paris to hone his skills. However, just before he is about to leave, life propels him into a direction he had never thought of or planned for.

He finds himself having to take over the reins of his father's ailing Indian restaurant, Tandoori Palace, after his father, played by Harish Patel, has a heart attack and is hospitalized. Lack of enthusiasm from the staff and dwindling customers due to poor food quality complicate the situation, further making Samir's predicament distinctively challenging.

Meanwhile, Samir meets Akbar, played brilliantly by Bollywood's veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah. Akbar's character is an eccentric taxi driver, who also claims to be a legendary chef and incredibly charming raconteur. Akbar agrees to share his culinary wisdom and help transform the old, dying restaurant into a haven of authentic Indian cuisine only if Samir will let him live with him.

The plot turns engaging when Samir, who was born in the States and not well-versed with authentic Indian cuisine, moves beyond his comfort zone and immerses himself in learning Indian cookery under Akbar's tutelage. The culinary journey gets spiced up when the charismatic and confident character of Carrie enters Samir's life. Played endearingly by Jess Weixler, Carrie is a coworker and brings a simmer of romance to the storyline.

Aarti Mann (known for her role as Priya in The Big Bang Theory) portrays the role of Samir's sister. She brings justice to her role, serving as the backbone of the family during a challenging time. Dean Winters appears as a friend and former colleague of Samir's in a supportive role. Angela Lewis lends her skills to portraying a minor role in the film, providing crucial support to the narrative.

The film offers a delectable serving of Indian culture, food, familial bonds, and aspirations brewing in a melting pot of humor and poignant moments. Kaplan and Mandvi, who co-wrote the script, intelligently use food as a metaphor to bind the narrative and portray Samir's journey of self-discovery. Today's Special brings alive the chaos and color associated with Indian cuisine, all the while invoking the pleasure, pain, humor, and drama of life's unpredictability.

Technically, the film is sprinkled with beautifully shot sequences, and the cinematic aesthetics are utilized effectively to highlight the cultural contrast between Samir's American upbringing and his Indian heritage. The music score beautifully compliments the narrative, mixing traditional Indian tones with contemporary sounds, reflecting the lead character's cultural ambivalence.

In conclusion, Today's Special serves as a delightful cinematic experience that takes the audience on a palatable ride full of flavors and aromas of soulful Indian cooking along with a hearty tug at cross-cultural emotional strings. The film is as much about finding purpose and chasing dreams as it is about family values, self-identity, and embracing one's roots. Its multicultural essence, laughter-inducing humor, moving performances make it more than just a 'foodie' film; it's a charming tale that touches hearts and leaves viewers with a feel-good vibe.