Watch Barbecue

Barbecue is a narrative documentary film from 2017 that explores the cultural significance of barbecue in various nations across the world. Directed by Matthew Salleh, the film takes viewers on a global journey to discover the art and traditions of barbecue, as well as the people and stories behind the craft. The film begins with a quote from barbecue guru and author Steven Raichlen that sets the tone for the rest of the film: "Barbecue may not be the road to world peace, but it's a start." From there, viewers are transported to a lush green forest in Sweden where a sauna tradition is intertwined with the art of outdoor cooking. The focus then shifts to Australia, where a group of friends has created a weekly barbecue tradition that brings people together in a park.

As the film moves to Japan, viewers are introduced to a culture that takes its barbecue traditions seriously. Katsunori Yashima, Japan's "King of Barbecue," shares his philosophy and approach to cooking meat over charcoal. We meet a group of businessmen who bond over barbecue and a family who continues to run their restaurant despite a tragic accident.

The film then moves to South Africa, where barbecue is known as "braai." We meet Lwazi Dlaminilf, a Soweto native who shares his love for barbecue and the sense of community it creates. We learn about the significance of braai in South African culture and how it has evolved over time.

In Texas, the film explores the state's fierce BBQ rivalry between Austin and Lockhart. Tootsie Tomanetz, a legendary pitmaster from Lexington, Texas, shares her passion for cooking and what it means to be a woman in the male-dominated world of barbecue. We also meet a group of barbecue enthusiasts who run the annual Barbecue Summer Camp to teach others the art of smoking meat.

The film shifts to France, where barbecue is seen as a new and exciting trend. We meet Rufo 'Junny' Servado, a Filipino chef who brings his heritage and creativity to backyard barbecues in the Parisian suburbs. We also learn about the challenges of finding the right ingredients in a country that wasn't traditionally known for its barbecue culture.

Throughout each segment of the film, viewers are treated to stunning visuals of food being cooked over open flames and close-up shots of meat being sliced and served. The film also features interviews with expert pitmasters and chefs who share their knowledge and passion for barbecue.

One of the film's strengths is its ability to showcase the diversity of cultures and traditions surrounding barbecue. From the Scandinavian practice of cooking over an open flame to the South African sense of community created through braai, viewers get a glimpse of how barbecue has become a universal language of food and fellowship.

Overall, Barbecue is an engaging and visually stunning documentary that celebrates the art and culture of barbecue while highlighting the people and stories behind it. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a backyard grilling enthusiast, this film is sure to leave you hungry for more.

Barbecue is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.