The film begins by introducing us to Andy (Stephen Graham), who is walking to work. Based on his phone conversation, we understand Andy has a lot on his plate relating to his family, and big changes are occurring in his life. Soon he walks into the front door of his workplace, a well known and creditable restaurant where Andy is the head chef. He has one of the biggest nights of the year ahead of him.
He begins his shift by meeting a health inspector who gives Andy a rundown of his concerns and issues. Sadly, his night only becomes even more challenging as many issues and concerns arise, including being low on selected food items and staff running late for the evening shift. The restaurant has a booking for a boyfriend who is secretly hoping to propose to his girlfriend, and on top of that, a celebrity and a food critic will also later be stopping by.
Boiling Point allows viewers to be a fly on the wall. By using what feels like one continuous shot, the director allows movie lovers to follow Andy, many staff members and even the many customers dining throughout the night. Naturally, this film is tense and dramatic.
Performances are a knockout all around, with big praises going to Stephen Graham as Andy and Vinette Robinson as Carly, who works alongside Andy throughout the night. The restaurant, the team’s situation and issues all feel genuine, whether the situation be rude and challenging customers or disagreement with fellow staff. The film always has something going on, and I found myself highly engaged throughout. With a title like Boiling Point, it’s obvious that the film will become more and more heated up as the night progresses. As a viewer, I desired to see how the night would end.
Visually, I found this film to be highly pleasing. The filming style here is tremendous as it captures everything perfectly. Character’s emotions and frustrations are experienced first hand, and the continuous shot is a skill that I appreciated. The film is dialogue-heavy, and everything was pleasing to hear. The atmosphere of a busy restaurant is presented well in the surround sound, making viewers feel like they are at the centre of everything around them. The pacing is solid, with only a couple of scenes/moments that overstay their welcome ever so slightly. As the credits rolled down the screen, I was slightly disappointed as I wanted to see more. Viewers may find the film’s final moments somewhat rushed or vague, but the more I processed what I experienced, the more satisfied I truly felt with the entire film.
Overall, this is an incredible film. Audiences will have an unforgettable experience as if they were a fly on the wall witnessing a dramatic and tense evening. Filled with amazing performances, especially from both Stephen Graham and Vinette Robinson, the film is unlike anything I’ve ever seen or experienced in some time. The film flows wonderfully through the many situations and multiple characters. While the final moments may seem slightly vague or even slightly rushed, I still had a fabulous time with this gripping film, and it comes highly recommended.
9.4/10
19th October 2021
Written by Peter Walkden
WALKDEN ENTERTAINMENT
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