CHEF

He helped usher in the dawn of Marvel on the big screen with 'Iron Man' in 2008, but now actor/director/screenwriter Jon Favreau has discovered that you can keep your roots while still having wings as he returns to his humble indie beginnings, as both star and filmmaker of 'Chef'. With a few new tricks up his sleeve, Favreau has kept the independent look and feel while introducing the power of his Rolodex with co-stars like John Leguizamo, Sophia Vergara, Scarlett Johnansson, Dustin Hoffman and, of course, Robert Downey Jr.

'Chef' sees the once "next big thing" Carl Casper lose his job and become an unlikely internet sensation in the aftermath of a bad review. Having lost his inspiration, his family and his passion, Carl starts from scratch and returns to his simple home tastes when he decides to start a food truck business with his best friend and rekindle his relationship with his young son along the way.

Favreau has once again done what he does best - incorporate heart (and lots of it) in the most unexpected of situations. His humour has matured, as has his own performance style, whilst still remaining the Jon Favreau we all know and love. As a director, he inspires subtle and understated performances from all of his cast despite their highly comedic backgrounds, which allows the story to take centre stage and all the elements to flourish, allowing for organic, genuine laughs. While the story is formulaic and borderline cliché and somewhat predictable, it's still an easygoing heart-warmer certain to tickle your tastebuds.

As a film about a chef and his food truck, the gratuitous food porn is very much present, but at its mouth-watering best, accompanied by a killer Latin soundtrack to compliment your meal.