ðŠķ Story & Synopsis
The long-awaited comedy film “Cook Off!” finally hit the screens on November 17, 2017, after being shelved for a decade. Directed by Cathryn Michon and Guy Shalem, this American mockumentary takes a humorous dive into the world of a renowned cooking contest where a motley crew of contestants competes for the grand prize of one million dollars.
Set at the Van Rookle Farms Cooking Contest, the film follows a group of eccentric participants as they cook up a storm in hopes of winning the coveted prize. As the competition heats up, the foodie media and celebrity judges gather at a hotel convention area to witness the culinary showdown. From rising stars to unexpected falls, the film captures the true essence of the contestants as they navigate through the challenges, unveil their true selves, and even find love amidst the chaos, all under the watchful eye of the contest’s whimsical Muffin Man mascot.
With a runtime of 98 minutes, “Cook Off!” promises a delightful blend of comedy, drama, and heartwarming moments as it serves up a feast of laughter and entertainment for the audience. Packed with quirky characters, unexpected twists, and culinary creativity, this film is a flavorful treat for all comedy enthusiasts.
ð§ Cast & Crew
Tendaiishe Chitima, Tendai Nguni, Jesese Mungoshi, Eddie Sandifolo, Charmaine Mujeri, Kudzai Sevenzo, Fungai Majaya, Eugene Zimbudzi, Chimwemwe Chipidza, Kevin Hanssen, Zihlo, Michael Kudakwashe
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Cathryn Michon | Sharon Solfest |
| Melissa McCarthy | Amber Strang |
| Wendi McLendon-Covey | Pauline Solfest |
| Ben Falcone | Cameron Strang |
| Gary Anthony Williams | Lars Hagerbakke |
| Stephen Root | Morty Van Rookle |
| Diedrich Bader | Del Crawford |
| Niecy Nash | Ladybug Briggs |
| Louie Anderson | Mayor Doug Halverson |
| Marcia Wallace | Herself |
| Gavin MacLeod | Himself |
| Markie Post | Christine Merriweather |
| Jordan Black | Markus Briggs |
| Steve Little | Muffin Man |
| Sam Pancake | David Lord |
| Paul Willson | Mike Sweazy |
| Jack Plotnick | Timothy Whims |
| Cristine Rose | Victoria Dougherty |
| Phil LaMarr | Reverend Thaddeus Briggs, Esq. |
| Jennifer Elise Cox | Cassandra Dougherty |
| Cedric Yarbrough | Jericho |
| Romy Rosemont | Patty Pasternak |
| Roy Jenkins | Richard Pasternak |
| Jim Rash | Beauregard St. Pompadeux |
| Karen Maruyama | Lee Nguyen |
| S.A. Griffin | Dave Carriere |
| Melissa Peterman | Nancy Shmaedeke |
| Mindy Sterling | Mrs. Burris |
| Mo Collins | Van Rookle Farms Housewife |
| Annie Mumolo | Moonlight Girl |
| Tara Subkoff | Mayor’s Assistant |
| W. Bruce Cameron | EMT |
ðŽ Reviews and feedback
Hey there, movie buffs! Ready to dive into the flavorful world of “Cook Off!”? This movie is like a delicious dish that may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those who appreciate dry, dumb humor sprinkled with a dash of quirkiness, it’s a delectable treat.
Picture this: a mockumentary that follows contestants in a corporate cook-off challenge where each character brings their own unique story to the table. Remind you of any other mockumentary gems like “Drop Dead Gorgeous”? Well, “Cook Off!” serves up subtle and clever humor without relying on cheap gags.
Plot and Themes:
The storyline may seem stretched out and slow-paced at times, but hey, that’s the quirky charm of mockumentaries, right? The film delves into the lives of the contestants, unraveling their tales amidst the chaos of a baking competition. It’s like peeling back layers of an onion to reveal unexpected flavors.
Acting and Characters:
With a stellar cast led by Melissa McCarthy, the actors bring life to their quirky characters with finesse. Each contestant adds their own spice to the mix, creating a delightful ensemble that keeps you entertained throughout.
Direction and Cinematography:
The direction captures the essence of a chaotic cooking competition with flair. The cinematography adds to the mockumentary style, giving viewers a behind-the-scenes peek into the culinary madness unfolding on screen.
Score and Production Design:
The score complements the comedic moments perfectly, enhancing the overall viewing experience. The production design immerses you in the colorful world of competitive cooking, from bustling kitchens to flamboyant costumes.
Special Effects and Editing:
While “Cook Off!” may not rely heavily on special effects, its editing keeps the narrative engaging. Seamless transitions between scenes maintain the momentum, ensuring you stay hooked till the final bake-off.
Pace and Dialog:
Yes, the pace might feel leisurely at times, but it allows for character development and adds depth to the storyline. The dialogues are witty and sharp, serving up laughter alongside culinary chaos.
Binge-watching Tips:
- If you enjoy quirky mockumentaries like “Drop Dead Gorgeous,” give “Cook Off!” a shot for its offbeat humor.
- Sit back with some popcorn (or maybe some freshly baked treats) and savor each character’s unique journey through this culinary comedy.
So, should you add “Cook Off!” to your watchlist? If you’re in the mood for something light-hearted with a side of eccentricity, this film might just be your cup of tea (or should I say soup?). Just remember not to go in expecting Michelin-starred perfection; sometimes all you need is a good laugh served with a dollop of silliness!
Rating: 7/10
Dive into this quirky culinary world with “Cook Off!” and let its blend of humor and heartwarming moments whisk you away on an entertaining adventure!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great cast with recognizable actors | Slow pacing, feels stretched out |
| Delivers subtle and clever humor | Not suitable for those expecting more |
| Rooted in reality, based on a baking competition | Some underused performers |
| Mockumentary style adds to the humor | Lacks rhythm in scenes and overall structure |
| Each contestant has a story to tell, resulting in hilarity | Plodding forward narrative |
Feedback
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Cook Off! (2007) - IMDb
Cook Off!4/10 – disappointing mockumentary that wasted its stars’ (two of my faves: Melissa and Niecy) potentialhelpfulâĒ33
- JoBloTheMovieCritic
- Jul 20, 2019
- How long is Cook Off!?Powered by Alexa
Details
- Runtime1 hour 38 minutes
- Color
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Cook Off! - Wikipedia
- February 13, 2007US Comedy Arts Festival) (
- November 17, 2017 (United States)
Running time
98 minutes Country United States Language English Cook Off!is a 2007 American mockumentary comedy film directed by Cathryn Michon and Guy Shalem. The film was released on November 17, 2017, after being shelved for 10 years.
Synopsis
A group of quirky people is competing in a famed cooking contest for the grand prize of one million dollars.
This section
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COOK OFF! (2017 Movie) - Official Trailer - YouTube
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Cook Off! (2007) - Full Cast & Crew - IMDb
Cook Off! (2007)Full Cast & CrewDirected by
Cathryn Michon Guy Shalem Writing Credits (WGA)
Cathryn Michon … (written by) & Wendi McLendon-Covey … (written by) & W. Bruce Cameron … (written by) CastProduced by
Derek Anderson … executive producer / producer James Armstrong … producer in charge of production W. Bruce Cameron … producer Bruce Dickson … associate producer Rainer Filthaut … co-executive producer Kurt Hamilton … co-executive producer Oscar Johanson-Thor Holm … co-executive producer Sheri Kelton … executive producer Bob Krakower … co-producer Victor Kubicek … executive producer / producer Petr Lukes … co-executive producer Wendi McLendon-Covey … co-executive producer / co-producer Randy Mendelsohn … executive producer Cathryn Michon … co-executive producer / producer Ilia Nitsenko … co-executive producer Jason Pachomski … associate producer Seth Renov … executive producer Danny Schmitz … associate producer Jana Sobotova … co-executive producer Music by
Joel Beckerman Cinematography by
Bruce Dickson Michael Franks … (opening title sequence) Editing by
Mallory Gottlieb Michael Mees Cathryn Michon Casting By
Bob Krakower Production Design by
Brian O’Hara Art Direction by
Natalie Sanfilippo Costume Design by
Patricia Peppard Makeup Department
Jenna Keller … makeup artist Helena Amanda Lambert … assistant hair stylist Michelle Mungcal … makeup artist Linda Whang … makeup hair supervisor Production Management
Brad Birkeland … unit production manager Second Unit Director or Assistant Director
Thomas Kuk … first assistant director Alexa Sheehan … second assistant director (as Alexa Motley) Kimberly Stuckwisch … second second assistant director Art Department
Wayne Barker … art production assistant Robert Benedict … art production assistant Victoria Blake … property master Judy Chan … art production assistant Melissa Corrado … set construction Krista Pelen … art production assistant Doug Prinzivalli … assistant art director / set dresser Rich Staib … set constructor Sound Department
Dawn Cooper … boom operator Noelle DiMarco … a.d.r. mixer (as Joseph DiMarco) / additional rerecording mixer (as Joseph DiMarco) Angelina Faulkner … assistant sound editor Klint Macro … sound mixer James Scullion … foley editor Jennifer Seip … assistant sound editor Andrew Twite … sound effects editor Karol Urban … re-recording mixer Steve Urban … re-recording mixer Matt Walsh … sound mixer Camera and Electrical Department
Hassan Abdul Wahid … first assistant camera Matt Ardine … digital imaging technician Ryan Bradley … grip Cory Brandon Clay … camera operator (as Cory Clay) Bruce Dickson … “a” camera operator Jim Firios … camera operator: “b” camera / first assistant camera Grant Goza … grip S.A. Griffin … camera operator Brent Hansen … additional gaffer David Kagen … chief lighting technician Ama MacDonald … gaffer Yordi Martinez … assistant camera Jaime R. Mejia … jib operator Nathan Morris … best boy Joe Roach … grip Jason Sachse … electrician Andrew Takeuchi … camera operator Casting Department
LaVonne Rae Andrews … extras casting Carmen Betancourt … extras casting Costume and Wardrobe Department
Barbie Hatch … costume supervisor Faye McAuliffe … set costumer Bernadette Vela … costume assistant Editorial Department
Steve Bannerman … digital intermediate executive producer Melissa Lawson Cheung … post consultant (as Melissa Lawson) Jessica Clarke … digital intermediate senior producer Andrew Dale … conform artist Michael DeMirjian … additional editor Rebecca Erbe … digital intermediate assistant producer Lee Hultman … colorist Leandro Marini … supervising colorist Jason Pachomski … associate editor Borja Ribes Blanquer … digital intermediate mastering artist Kimberly Stuckwisch … second second assistant editor Location Management
Angela Carroll … location manager William Langlois … location manager (as Bill Monroe) Miguel Tapia … assistant location manager (as Carlos Tapia) Music Department
Tristan Clopet … composer: additional music Joel C. High … music supervisor Adele Ho … music coordinator Greg Pliska … orchestrator Script and Continuity Department
Eva Zelder … script supervisor Transportation Department
Richard ‘Bongo’ Mitchell … transportation coordinator Additional Crew
Dorit Avganim … production assistant Wayne Barker … art production assistant Chris Calderon … production assistant Danny Deraney … publicist David Grauberger … production coordinator Katie A. King … production assistant (as Katie King) Jean McDowell … head of marketing: Lionsgate Premiere Jade McQueen … production intern Amy Roberts … craft service Mic Rogers … production coordinator: The Halcyon Company Michael Saleman … pro -
Cook Off! | Rotten Tomatoes
Cook Off!Where to WatchCook Off!
Rent Cook Off! on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV, or buy it on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV.
Critics ReviewsAudience ReviewsMy RatingCast & Crew
Guy ShalemDirectorCathryn MichonDirectorCathryn MichonSharon SolfestWendi McLendon-CoveyPauline SolfestMelissa McCarthyAmber StrangBen FalconeCameron Strang
â ïļ Explanation (Spoiler)
In the mockumentary comedy film “Cook Off!”, directed by Cathryn Michon and Guy Shalem, a group of eccentric individuals compete in a prestigious cooking competition with a grand prize of one million dollars up for grabs. The film was initially completed in 2007 but was unexpectedly shelved for ten years before finally being released in 2017.
The star-studded cast includes Cathryn Michon as Sharon Solfest, Melissa McCarthy as Amber Strang, Wendi McLendon-Covey as Pauline Solfest, Ben Falcone as Cameron Strang, and a plethora of other talented actors like Gary Anthony Williams, Niecy Nash, and Louie Anderson.
The plot revolves around the various contestants showcasing their culinary skills and quirky personalities as they vie for the top prize. The characters bring humor and drama to the cooking competition, making for an entertaining and engaging watch.
Despite the delayed release, “Cook Off!” managed to make its debut at the US Comedy Arts Festival in 2007 before hitting theaters and VOD platforms in 2017. The film received mixed reviews, with critics noting its attempt to mimic the style of mockumentaries like “Best in Show” but falling short in terms of originality and comedic execution.
Overall, “Cook Off!” offers a lighthearted and humorous take on the world of competitive cooking, serving up a blend of laughter and culinary chaos for audiences to enjoy.
ðŠ Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-G
Age Rating:
The movie “Cook Off!” has been rated R, indicating that the content may not be suitable for viewers under 17 without parental guidance.
Parental Guide:
Parents should be aware that “Cook Off!” contains elements that may not be suitable for all audiences. Here is a detailed parental guide to help you make an informed decision:
- Sex & Nudity:
- The movie contains some sexual references and innuendos throughout.
- There are no explicit sexual scenes or nudity shown.
- Violence & Gore:
- There are comedic elements of violence, but it is not graphic or intense.
- No extreme gore or bloodshed is depicted in the movie.
- Profanity:
- There is moderate to strong language used, including profanities and crude humor.
- Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking:
- There are no prominent depictions of alcohol, drugs, or smoking in the movie.
- Frightening & Intense Scenes:
- The movie is a comedy and does not contain genuinely frightening or intense scenes.
Overall, “Cook Off!” is a mockumentary comedy film with some adult themes and language, making it more suitable for mature audiences. Parents are advised to watch the movie first and then decide if it is appropriate for their children under 17.
ðš Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| The Roku Channel | Watch ‘Cook Off!’ for free with ads |
| Tubi TV | Watch ‘Cook Off!’ for free with ads |
| Freevee | Watch ‘Cook Off!’ for free with ads |
| Apple TV | Buy or rent ‘Cook Off!’ online |
| Amazon Video | Buy or rent ‘Cook Off!’ online |
| Microsoft Store | Buy or rent ‘Cook Off!’ online |
â Quotes and Cult
I would rather sit on a pumpkin and have it all to myself than be crowded on a velvet cushion.
Don't let the muggles get you down.
ðĪCook Off Reddit Talks
Cook Off: A Mockumentary with a Twist
“Cook Off,” a mockumentary starring Melissa McCarthy, has sparked discussions on Reddit, with viewers sharing their thoughts on the film’s humor, pacing, and underlying themes.
Dry Humor and Mockumentary Style
Many viewers praised the film’s dry, offbeat humor, which some likened to “Drop Dead Gorgeous” and “Napoleon Dynamite.” The mockumentary format, with its intentionally awkward pacing and exaggerated characters, was also a hit with some viewers. However, others found the film’s slow pace and repetitive jokes to be a turn-off.
Rooted in Reality
Despite its comedic nature, “Cook Off” is loosely based on a real-life baking competition. This fact has intrigued some viewers, who appreciate the film’s blend of fiction and reality.
Character-Driven Comedy
The ensemble cast of “Cook Off” received high marks for their quirky and memorable performances. Melissa McCarthy’s portrayal of the eccentric chef was particularly praised. Each character has their own unique backstory and motivations, adding depth to the film’s comedic moments.
Critical Reception
“Cook Off” has received mixed reviews from critics. Some have praised its originality and humor, while others have criticized its slow pacing and uneven tone. However, the film seems to have struck a chord with many viewers, who have enjoyed its offbeat charm.
Cultural Significance
“Cook Off” has also been noted for its cultural significance as the first film from Zimbabwe to be streamed on Netflix. This achievement has been celebrated by some viewers, who see it as a sign of progress for Zimbabwean cinema.
Overall, “Cook Off” is a divisive film that has both its fans and detractors. Its dry humor, mockumentary style, and quirky characters have appealed to some viewers, while others have found it too slow and uneven. However, the film’s unique blend of fiction and reality, as well as its cultural significance, have made it a topic of discussion on Reddit.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/1712qm2/the_cookoff_this_movie_is_a_riot_i_cant_believe/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/714tep/cook_off_official_trailer/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/71b7rj/new_poster_for_cookoff_starring_melissa_mccarthy/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Reno911/comments/zzktf6/watch_cook_off_on_tubi/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/wikipedia/comments/19c3njv/cook_off_2017_is_the_first_film_from_zimbabwe_to/
â Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cook Off based on a true story?
Cook Off! is a 2007 American mockumentary comedy film directed by Cathryn Michon and Guy Shalem. The film was released on November 17, 2017, after being shelved for 10 years. Cook Off!
What is the meaning of a cook-off?
A cook-off is a cooking competition where the people taking part each prepare dishes in a particular amount of time. For example, the ten finalists will be taking part in a cook-off at the Live Theater.
What is the meaning of a chili cook-off?
A chili cook-off is a social event, similar to a barbecue, in which competitors prepare their own particular recipe for chili con carne and submit it for taste testing.
What is the great Cook Off movie about?
Cook Off! is a little gem of a movie, made with familiar faces and delivering subtle and clever humor without needing cheap gags. Created along the lines of “Drop Dead Gorgeous,” the story follows contestants in a corporate cook-off challenge where each person has a story to tell, resulting in hilarity.
What is the cooking show with Melissa McCarthy?
Cook Off! is a 2007 American mockumentary comedy film directed by Cathryn Michon and Guy Shalem. The story follows contestants in a corporate cook-off challenge where each person has a story to tell.
ð Recommended Movie and TV Show
- Cook Off! (2007) : A mockumentary following amateur “chefs” in a corporate cook off challenge, delivering subtle and clever humor.
- Today’s Special (2009) : A comedy-drama film centered around a young chef who takes over his family’s Indian restaurant.
- The Kitchen: World Chef Battle (2017) : A cooking competition movie showcasing culinary skills on a global scale.
- The BBQ (2018) : A comedy film about a man competing in a BBQ cook-off to save his family’s sauce recipe.
- Le Grand Chef 2: Kimchi Battle (2010) : A South Korean film focusing on a culinary competition centered around kimchi.
- Like Water for Chocolate : A romantic drama film based on a book, exploring magical realism through food and emotions.
- Ratatouille : An animated film about a rat with a passion for cooking who teams up with a young kitchen worker in Paris.
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