Watch Le Grand Chef 2: Kimchi Battle

Le Grand Chef 2: Kimchi Battle is a South Korean movie that was released in 2010. Directed by Baek Dong-hoon, it is a sequel to the 2007 film, Le Grand Chef, and is based on the comic book of the same name. The movie revolves around two chefs, Choi Yong-sik (Jin Goo) and Seong-chan (Kook-jin Han), who are both protégés of Master Chef Baek Jong-won (Jin-Ki Baek). After the demise of Master Chef Baek, his will reveals that he has left behind a recipe for a secret dish called 'Hidden Treasures' that he thought could revolutionize Korean cuisine.

The recipe is divided into two parts and both chefs are given one part each with the challenge to perfect it. This leads to a Kimchi Battle competition between the two chefs to determine who will get to cook the full recipe and realize Master Chef Baek's dream.

The two chefs have a history together, as Seong-chan had previously betrayed Yong-sik by stealing his dish and selling it as his own. This adds an extra layer of tension to the competition between the two chefs.

The movie also explores the theme of tradition in Korean cuisine. Seong-chan is a traditionalist who believes in sticking to the old ways of cooking, while Yong-sik is a creative and daring chef who is willing to experiment with new ingredients and techniques. This clash between tradition and innovation is a recurring theme throughout the movie.

The two chefs embark on a journey to discover the ingredients for their respective parts of the recipe. This leads them to different parts of Korea where they explore the local cuisine and meet various characters along the way.

One of the standout characters in the movie is a quirky and eccentric farmer named Yeo-seol (played by Lee Bo-young), who grows a special type of cabbage that is key to making the perfect Kimchi. She becomes a key ally to Yong-sik and helps him obtain the necessary ingredients despite the many obstacles in their way.

Throughout the movie, there are various challenges and obstacles that the chefs must overcome, including a group of thugs who attempt to sabotage their efforts. There are also moments of humor and levity, particularly in the interactions between the two chefs and the colorful characters they meet on their journey.

The Kimchi Battle competition at the end of the movie is the highlight of the film, as the two chefs face off against each other in a dramatic and intense showdown. The competition is judged by a panel of esteemed chefs who are impressed by both dishes, but ultimately have to choose a winner.

Le Grand Chef 2: Kimchi Battle is a feel-good movie that celebrates the art of cooking and the importance of tradition in Korean cuisine. It is a visually stunning film that showcases the beauty of the Korean landscape and cuisine. The performances by the cast, particularly Jin Goo and Kook-jin Han, are excellent and bring depth and nuance to their respective characters.

Overall, Le Grand Chef 2: Kimchi Battle is a film that will appeal to foodies and fans of Korean cinema alike. It is an enjoyable and entertaining movie that celebrates the power of food to bring people together and the importance of carrying on traditions while also pushing boundaries.