Raja Krishna Menon: The Journey Behind Saif Ali Khan's 'Chef' and Its Impact

Director Raja Krishna Menon has been making waves in the Bollywood industry with his unique storytelling and direction. His 2017 film, 'Chef,' starring Saif Ali Khan, has recently celebrated seven years since its release. This comedy-drama film is an official remake of the 2014 American film of the same name, directed by Jon Favreau. Let's delve into the journey behind 'Chef' and its impact on the audience.

1. The Inspiration Behind 'Chef'

Raja Krishna Menon's inspiration for 'Chef' was deeply rooted in his personal experiences. The director, who grew up without a father, found solace in exploring the father-son relationship in the film. Menon's own life experiences influenced the emotional depth of the movie, making it a cathartic experience for him as he delved into understanding this complex bond.

Menon has mentioned that he had no relationship with his father, who walked away when he was less than a year old. This absence shaped his perspective on family and relationships, which he aimed to reflect in 'Chef.' The film's protagonist, Roshan Kalra (played by Saif Ali Khan), returns to India to be with his son and retraces his steps to the journey that made him a chef.

2. The Making of 'Chef'

The making of 'Chef' was a meticulous process. Menon spent a month-and-a-half with Saif Ali Khan before the film's principal photography began. Khan prepared for his role by practicing his body language and cooking skills. He even underwent cooking lessons to get the character right, impressing everyone with his skills, especially his preparation of aglio olio pasta.

The film's production involved extensive preparation, including setting up a functional food truck that took two-and-half months to prepare. The truck had to be both a kitchen and conducive for shooting, which added to the complexity of the project. Menon and his team ensured that every detail was authentic, from the food to the settings.

Casting the child actor to play Saif's son was another challenging task. After three months of screen-testing nearly 200 students, they finally found 11-year-old Svar Kamble. Menon was impressed by Kamble's intelligence, relatability, and sense of responsibility, which made him the perfect fit for the role.

3. Critical Reception and Impact

Despite its efforts, 'Chef' underperformed at the box office. However, the film received mixed reviews from critics. Meena Iyer of The Times of India praised Saif Ali Khan's performance, giving the film a rating of 3.5 out of 5. Sukanya Verma of Rediff gave it a rating of 2.5 out of 5, noting that while the premise begged for food porn, there was a scarcity of sensory pleasure or vision in the film.

Raja Sen of NDTV gave the film a rating of 2 out of 5, stating that lazy writing and direction made 'Chef' a flavorless and bland meal. Despite these mixed reviews, 'Chef' remains a significant film in Raja Krishna Menon's career, showcasing his ability to explore complex themes through unique storytelling.

The film's impact extends beyond its box office performance. It has become a cultural reference point, with many praising its portrayal of the father-son relationship and the journey of rediscovery that Roshan Kalra undertakes. The film's themes of food, love, and family continue to resonate with audiences.

4. Legacy and Future Projects

Seven years after its release, 'Chef' continues to be celebrated for its unique blend of comedy and drama. Director Raja Krishna Menon has since directed other notable films like 'Airlift,' which also received critical acclaim. His ability to weave complex narratives has cemented his position as a prominent director in Bollywood.

Menon's future projects are eagerly anticipated by fans and critics alike. His dedication to storytelling and his ability to bring out the best in his actors make him a director to watch in the industry. As 'Chef' continues to be remembered for its emotional depth and authentic portrayal of relationships, it serves as a testament to Menon's skill as a filmmaker.

In conclusion, 'Chef' is more than just a film; it's a reflection of Raja Krishna Menon's journey as a director and his ability to explore complex themes through unique storytelling. The film's impact on the audience and its legacy in the industry are a testament to Menon's skill and dedication to his craft.