Watch The Heat: A Kitchen

The Heat: A Kitchen (R)Evolution is a documentary film that takes audiences on a journey through the history of female chefs in the culinary industry, and the challenges and obstacles they face. The film features some of the most renowned female chefs, such as Suzanne Barr, Victoria Blarney, and Amanda Cohen, as they break the barriers and challenge the norms of male-dominated kitchens.

The film begins with the story of the first female chef in France, Eugenie Brazier, who became the first woman to earn three Michelin stars in the 1930s. The Heat then explores the gradual advancement of women in the culinary industry in the following decades, but also depicts the challenges and prejudices they faced, such as being deemed unfit for the kitchen due to their gender, or being subjected to inappropriate behavior.

The Heat also explores the cultural and societal expectations that make it difficult for women to pursue a career in the culinary industry. For instance, many cultures expect women to be homemakers and caregivers, and pursuing a career in the culinary industry goes against these expectations. The film shows how some female chefs had to choose between their professional ambitions and their personal lives.

The Heat then delves into the issue of sexism in the kitchen, where female chefs are often subjected to harassment and discrimination from their male colleagues. The film highlights how this issue has been exacerbated by the brutal, competitive nature of the professional kitchen and the preconceived notions about gender roles. Several chefs relay their personal experiences of being undermined, ridiculed, and bullied in the kitchen because of their gender.

Despite these challenges and obstacles, the film shows the incredible resilience and determination of female chefs. The Heat features interviews with some of the most successful female chefs in the culinary industry, such as Anne-Sophie Pic, Dominique Crenn, and Clare Smyth. These women have all earned three Michelin stars, and their success represents a major turning point in the culinary world.

The Heat also delves into the philosophy and techniques of female chefs, who often approach cooking in a different way than their male counterparts. Women chefs tend to use fresh, locally sourced, and often plant-based ingredients, and are dedicated to providing healthy and nourishing meals. Several chefs talk about the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment in the kitchen, where all team members feel valued and respected.

Ultimately, The Heat: A Kitchen (R)Evolution is a powerful and inspiring film that showcases the resilience, strength, and talent of female chefs. The film highlights the challenges and obstacles female chefs have faced over the years, but also celebrates their achievements and contributions to the culinary industry. The Heat challenges viewers to see the kitchen as a place where women can thrive and change the industry for the better, and to support and encourage female chefs in their careers.

The Heat: A Kitchen is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.