Watch A Matter of Taste: Serving Up Paul Liebrandt

A Matter of Taste: Serving Up Paul Liebrandt is a compelling food documentary film from 2011 that explores the life and culinary career of Chef Paul Liebrandt. The documentary takes us on a journey through the ups and downs of Liebrandt's career as a ground-breaking chef who struggled to find his place in the competitive world of fine dining.

Throughout the film, we are introduced to Liebrandt's innovative and boundary-pushing cuisine, which gained him notoriety in the culinary world in the early 2000s. We see how he developed his unique style, drawing inspiration from art, music, and even perfume. Liebrandt's approach to cooking is nothing short of an art form, with each dish he creates being a carefully crafted masterpiece that delights the senses.

However, despite his undeniable talents in the kitchen, Liebrandt faced numerous challenges in his career. The film explores the difficulties he faced in establishing his reputation and finding a suitable audience for his avant-garde cooking style. For years, his restaurants struggled to stay afloat, and he received little recognition from the mainstream food media, which often rewarded more conventional approaches to cuisine.

The documentary also delves into Liebrandt's personal life, revealing a complex and sensitive man who was sometimes his own worst enemy. We see how he struggled with addiction and how his perfectionism sometimes got in the way of his own success. His relationships with colleagues, critics, and staff are also explored, showcasing the many obstacles he faced as he tried to navigate the high-pressure world of fine dining.

Throughout the film, we hear from some of the industry's most renowned chefs, including Heston Blumenthal, Daniel Boulud, and Frank Bruni, who share their thoughts on Liebrandt's cooking and his impact on the culinary world. Their insights provide a fascinating look at how Liebrandt's work was perceived by some of the most influential figures in the food industry.

Despite the challenges he faced, Liebrandt never lost sight of his passion for cooking. The film concludes with his successful opening of a new restaurant, Corton, which earned him critical acclaim and two Michelin stars. The footage of his cooking in this new establishment is particularly impressive, showcasing his growth as a chef and his mastery of the craft.

Overall, A Matter of Taste: Serving Up Paul Liebrandt is a thought-provoking and visually stunning documentary that delves deep into the complexities of the culinary world. It offers an intimate look at the life of one of the industry's most innovative chefs and shines a light on the struggles and triumphs that come with being a trailblazer in any field. This is a must-see film for foodies and anyone interested in the creative process.

A Matter of Taste: Serving Up Paul Liebrandt is a 2010 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 9 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.