Dead Set on Life

Dead Set on Life is an adventurous culinary documentary series from Viceland that was first aired in 2016. The effervescent and indomitable Matty Matheson, a renowned Canadian chef, is at the center of this exploration, taking viewers on a pulsating gastronomic journey that's both magnificently insightful and wildly entertaining. Reflecting Matheson's effervescent personality and reputation as an unconventional figure within the culinary world, Dead Set on Life is not just a cooking show but is also a vibrant vision of culture, tradition, and food as a social bonding mechanism.

On a mission to showcase various culinary practices, Matheson never fails to deliver enthusiasm and genuine curiosity during his excursions. From the sub-arctic terrain of the Nunavut territory in Canada to Las Vegas’s glitzy, high-octane food extravaganzas, the show opens a window to a world of diverse and outlandish cuisines unlike anything viewers have witnessed before. Dead Set on Life isn’t just about the high-profile kitchen restaurants or exquisite delicacies, but is also about understanding the culture, tradition, and the people behind those culinary practices.

What truly sets Dead Set on Life apart is Matheson's dedication and commitment to diving deep into the matters of food and society. Through the course of the series, he forges bonds with local communities, uncovers their traditional cooking methods and, in turn, reveals the stories of unique life experiences serving as a pathway into their cultural gastronomy. Consequently, beyond the cooking demonstrations and the eccentric food exploration, Matheson brings forth a more profound, culturally rich experience for the viewers. The show is a fantastic amalgamation of riveting cooking adventures, closely-knit community narratives, and Matheson's signature humor, all encapsulating the beauty of being fully immersed in varying food cultures around the world.

The show also brings forth Matheson’s idiosyncratic philosophy towards life – “You have got to live your life fully and freely right this very second,” a somewhat contagious sentiment translated well into his interactions with the communities he visits and the food he experiences. Matheson doesn't just roast a lamb in Iceland or catch eels in Ontario – he sears the lamb on an active volcanic vent and braves freezing rivers to ensure an authentic eel-catching experience. Dead Set on Life is about a full-throttled plunge into the world of splendid cuisines and charting the less-traveled paths in the world of food adventures.

Each episode unfolds the excitement and challenges of distinct culinary practices, which plays well against Matheson’s endless charm and infectious enthusiasm. His hilarious off-the-cuff remarks and infectious laughter bring a lighthearted balance to the seriousness of culinary pursuits. Additionally, Matheson's heavy-tattooed image, coupled with his unabashed and forthright demeanor, challenges the popular image of TV chefs, making him a fresh and relatable presence on screen. His ability to engage with his audience and subjects with equal aplomb turns each episode into an exhilarating joyride through the galaxy of food, culture, and companionship.

Dead Set on Life clearly demonstrates that food is much more than sustenance. The show suggests that sharing meals and focusing on the stories behind the creation each dish can be the key to understanding and uniting diverse communities. Matheson’s passionate, open-hearted approach to a variety of culinary experiences perfectly complements this narrative.

Dead Set on Life offers a rewarding culinary odyssey that serves as a reminder that the world of gastronomy isn't merely about expensive ingredients or sophisticated cooking techniques. It’s about the experience, the shared human connection, and most importantly, the journey, as Matheson's energetic persona breathes life into the age-old adage that the "joy truly lies in the journey, not just the destination."