I was really surprised by the charming experience this movie provided.

The plot was a bit cliche towards the end, but I can't fault it too much. It's obvious this was meant to be a feel-good movie and it succeeds magnifically in doing exactly that. The rhythm of the story is always very upbeat and I really liked that. Even the drama and the low point in the protagonist's story are not dragged for too long, the movie just moves along with a satisfying pace.

Whoever chose the music that accompanies the whole film did an exceptionally good job. The song reflects the mood and the place of what's on screen in that moment. Chapeau!

The cast had a tangible chemistry. From the minor roles such as Johansson and Hoffman to more prominent ones like Leguizamo, everyone was really good. Favreau shined as Carl, showing the passion a chef feels for the food he cooks.

Now, the food. The food is the real co-protagonist. You may think the movie is about Carl and his son. It's not. It's about Carl and his food. Carl can't be happy if he's not happy with what he cooks as a chef. Everything else comes later. [spoiler]As soon as he gains his gastronomic freedom, he also gains a bond with his son, through the food.[/spoiler]
The cinematography of the cooking scenes was on point. It can only be described as food porn. Not only that, but they managed to capture the controlled chaos that is any cooking business.

Overall, great cast, really nice cinematography, excellent soundtrack, the story could have been better. 8/10
Cooking pasta while Scarlett Johansson makes sexy eyes at you? 10/10