Last Friday’s Weekender had a terrific review of an independent movie called “The Kings of Pastry”. This is a documentary-style movie about 16 pastry chefs competing in the baking competition MOF (Meilleurs Ouvriers de France—the best craftsmen in the country). It is only playing at one theatre in our area—the West End Cinema in DC. Only having been open for a month, it is a fabulous addition to the area. Located just 2 blocks from George Washington University and 4 blocks from Georgetown, it is really easy to get here. The focus is independent, documentary and foreign films. Having read the review, we decided to check out the film Saturday night. The movie started at 7:15 on the dot and had NO previews—so be sure to get there early in order to get a seat before it starts. “The Kings of Pastry” concentrates on three main competitors, their families and their coaches and really brings to light the sheer determination and precise skills necessary to become a MOF. You really get caught up in the emotion of timing trials, critiques and of course the three day competition itself! Each competitor is required to make an assortment of lavish desserts (wedding cakes, lollipops, huge sugar sculptures, cream puffs, candy ribbons and much more!), which were put to taste tests and scored. The three day competition is super intense, where a dropped sugar sculpture, a broken flower or undercooked cake can spell disaster. There is plenty of tension to be sure, but all the while you are rooting for these chefs to pull through. This is definitely one movie worth seeing this season…and this theatre is a fantastic one if you are into independent or foreign films. They offer a full bar and a wide assortment of snacks. It is only about a 20-25 minute drive from many parts of Alexandria, Kingstowne and Springfield. Or, you can hop on the Metro and get off at the Foggy Bottom Metro stop. The address is 2301 M St NW, at the corner of 23rd & M; the entrance is on 23rd St. Valet parking is available in the building next door for theatre patrons at $7/night. Or you can always park on the street if you can find a space.
Susan Hall
