Watch The Sandwich Nazi

The Sandwich Nazi is a 2015 documentary film that follows the life and work of Salam Kahil, a Lebanese immigrant who runs a highly successful deli in Vancouver, Canada. The film is directed by Lewis Bennett and produced by John Ritchie, with Derek Gunning as the executive producer. The main focus of the film is Salam Kahil, who is known to his customers as "the Sandwich Nazi" due to his notorious temper and his unconventional business practices. Kahil operates a deli called La Charcuterie, which has gained a cult following over the years due to the quality of its food and the outrageous behavior of its owner.

The film is structured around a series of interviews with Kahil and his customers, as well as footage shot inside La Charcuterie. Through these interviews and footage, the film paints a portrait of Kahil as a complex and often conflicted figure. On one hand, he is a master craftsman who takes immense pride in his work and insists on using only the finest ingredients. On the other hand, he is a volatile and unpredictable individual who can lash out at customers and employees alike.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the juxtaposition between Kahil's often abrasive personality and the warmth and loyalty of his customers. Many of the film's interviewees describe their relationship with Kahil as one of mutual respect and admiration, despite his occasional outbursts. This creates a fascinating tension, as the film asks the viewer to grapple with the question of whether Kahil's behavior is simply a part of his persona or a deeper flaw in his character.

Another notable aspect of the film is its exploration of Kahil's background as a Lebanese immigrant. The film delves into his experiences growing up in Lebanon during the civil war, as well as his struggles to build a new life for himself in Canada. This backstory adds depth and context to Kahil's character and also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by many immigrants in North America.

As the film progresses, it becomes clear that Kahil's abrasive personality is not entirely an affectation. He struggles with several personal demons, including a difficult relationship with his mother and a long-standing battle with alcoholism. The film treats these issues with empathy and sensitivity, shedding light on the complex emotions and experiences that have led Kahil to become the person he is today.

Despite the personal struggles at the heart of the film, there is also a strong sense of humor and joy throughout. Kahil's talent for crafting delicious sandwiches and his playful banter with customers bring a lightheartedness to many of the film's scenes. This humor provides a counterbalance to the darker moments in the film, making it an engaging and enjoyable watch.

Overall, The Sandwich Nazi is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary that manages to be both entertaining and emotionally resonant. The film offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of a unique character while also exploring broader themes of immigration, identity, and the meaning of success. Whether you're a foodie or simply a fan of character-driven documentaries, The Sandwich Nazi is definitely worth checking out.

The Sandwich Nazi is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.