La Cocina: A Gritty Look Behind the Kitchen Doors
A look into the invisible lives of undocumented workers
La Cocina, a 2024 black-and-white drama directed by Mexican filmmaker Alonso Ruizpalacios, takes viewers into the chaotic, high-pressure world of a New York City restaurant during its hectic lunch rush. Dubbed an "anti-food-porn" film, it shatters the glossy, romanticized portrayal of restaurant kitchens and instead focuses on the harsh realities faced by its workers.
Set in The Grill, a tourist-heavy restaurant in Times Square, the story centers on a group of kitchen staff, many of whom are undocumented immigrants. As they battle to keep up with the relentless stream of orders. The film also explores the workers’ diverse cultural backgrounds, personal struggles, and their pursuit of the American dream.
The film’s cast includes Raúl Briones Carmona, Anna Diaz, Motell Foster, Rooney Mara, and Oded Fehr, who bring to life the tensions and camaraderie within the kitchen. Ruizpalacios transported his cast to Mexico for immersive workshops to prepare them for their roles, creating a real portrayal of migrant workers' experiences.
La Cocina premiered at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival in February 2024 and received critical acclaim for its raw and unfiltered storytelling. It was released in the United States on October 25, 2024 and in Mexico on November 7, 2024.