An online feud with an influential food critic (Platt) and a creative disagreement with his investor (Hoffman) convince Carl Casper (Favreau) to hang up his "Chef" apron at a posh Los Angeles bistro and get his mojo back in Miami's Cuban-inspired cuisine. When his ex-wife (Vergara) helps him get a fresh start with a rundown food truck, Carl and his best friend and Sous Chef Martin (Leguizamo) head across the country with Carl's young son Percy on a culinary adventure that helps Carl rediscover what matters in life. (Gary Reber)
Special featues include commentary by Writer/Director Jon Favreau and Chef and Co-Producer Roy Choi, seven deleted scenes (HD 10:31), upfront previews, and an UltraViolet digital copy.
The 1080p AVC picture is terrific with a rich, warm and natural color palette that is nicely saturated. At times colors pop and hues are vibrant with strong primaries. Fleshtones are naturally rendered throughout. Contrast is well balanced with deep, solid blacks and revealing shadow delineation. Resolution is revealing of fine detail exhibited in close-ups of foods and ingredients, facial features, hair, clothing, and object texture. This is wonderfully colorful and natural visual experience that looks great. (Gary Reber)
The DTS-HD Master Audio™ 5.1-channel soundtrack is basically monaural focused, even atmospherics. There are short segments of sound effects that provide a bit of dynamic energy. Dialogue is naturally presented with decent spatial integration. The real sonic satisfaction is delivered by a terrific music score, with a mixture of Cuban jazz, Texas blues, and pop boogie flavors. Fidelity is excellent, and the soundstage is wide and deep with an aggressive surround presence. If it weren't for the music, this would be an undistinguished soundtrack, but the music segments are frequent enough to deliver an engaging experience. (Gary Reber)