Shape of Pasta

Shape of Pasta, released in 2020 on Quibi, is a captivating and mouth-watering docu-series centred around the lesser-known forms of pasta and the rich cultural traditions, exceptional talent, and unique personalities behind them. The protagonist of this riveting show is Chef Evan Funke, james Beard Award nominee, who is popular for dusting off Italy's neglected culinary techniques to bring them back to life in Los Angeles through his widely acclaimed Restaurant, Felix Trattoria. Through this show, viewers get to follow Chef Funke on an exciting gastronomic tour of Italy as he sets out on his mission to save the dying pasta shapes.

The show comprises eight bite-sized episodes, each running less than ten minutes, and making it an easily bingeable series. Throughout the show, Funke takes viewers on an immersive journey into the undervalued corners of Italy’s varied regions, where he hunts for arcane and obscure pasta shapes and techniques that are on the brink of being forgotten. Each episode focuses on a specific, lesser-known pasta shape, enriched by centuries-old regional customs and family traditions. The main objective lies in understanding the form, history, craft, and technique that go into these shapes, grasping their significance for Italy's cultural heritage and keeping their legacy alive for future generations.

Chef Funke's passion for pasta is infectious. The audience can feel the palpable admiration he has for the art of pasta-making, be it the way he handles the dough, or how he listens to the generational pasta-making masters—the "Pasta Nonnas", who keep centuries-old traditions alive in their kitchens. Funke believes that these shapes are an integral aspect of Italian history and culture and are deserving of recognition and perpetuation.

One of the main attractions of the show is the rich stories behind each shape, often grounded in historical events and geographical influences, and right down to local crops and climate conditions. The viewer is given individual tales of the special pasta shapes, how they were born, and the unique techniques employed in their creation. The Nonnas and their families warmly welcome us into their homes and hearts, providing an intimate look at the traditions and the persons behind the unusual pasta shapes. These human stories, intertwined with the pasta tales, infuse the show with warmth and authenticity, adding up to the viewer’s involvement and interest.

As much as Shape of Pasta is a food show, it is also a celebration of Italy's rich cultural heritage and the tenacious spirit of its people. It gives us a glimpse into Italy's lesser-known regions, marvellous landscapes, language diversity, and provincial life, which is just as engaging and charming as the pasta shapes themselves. It is a heartfelt tribute to Italy and its culinary, cultural, and social specifics, unveiling so much more than food recipes.

In terms of production, the show is visually stunning. It is beautifully shot, with the enticing charm of the Italian landscape as a backdrop—from the verdant expanses of the Apennines, the crystal clear coastal towns, to the rustic charm of hillside villages. The pasta-making itself is presented like a masterful choreography with each knead, twist, and turn captured in captivating detail.

Having said that, the show is not just an epicurean’s delight but a captivating experience for all types of audiences. It effectively elucidates the art and science of pasta making, making it equally engaging for people interested in culinary history, culture, travel, or those just looking for a relaxing and visually delightful show.

On a deeper level, Shape of Pasta throws a light on the importance of culinary traditions and their preservation, thereby instigating stimulating thoughts about food as not just sustenance but a method of storytelling and bonding over shared histories and traditions. The show embodies the essence of the saying, "Tell me what you eat, and I will tell you what you are"—highlighting the intrinsic connections between our food choices and our cultural identity.

In sum, Shape of Pasta is a brilliant culinary travelogue that pays homage to niche pasta shapes and the artistry surrounding them while serving as a sensory delight for the viewer. With Chef Evan Funke's infectious enthusiasm, the charm of Italy's landscape, and the intimate tales of the Nonnas, the show is a unique blend of food, culture, storytelling, and visual spectacle. Prepare to embark on a memorable gastronomic tour as you click the play button in 2020's Shape of Pasta!