The Netflix R-Rated Sci-Fi Thriller Tackles Dark Subject Matter
If you like your science fiction films with a hefty dose of insightful social commentary, like many great sci-fis have, then the new Netflix film The Kitchen might be just what you’re looking for this week. The film just hit the platform on January 19 after a limited theatrical run in the UK, and it’s already getting some buzz. It seems like Netflix is ready to hit the ground running with its original movies in 2024, and this film is starting the year off right.
The Kitchen Streaming On Netflix
The Kitchen is a sci-fi drama that takes place in London in the near future, where most of the public housing in the UK has been bought up by the rich. One of the few places where less-privileged residents can afford to live is a dilapidated apartment complex known as the Kitchen, which is frequently faced with violent police raids. The film follows a Kitchener named Izi, who wants to escape this life and try to make his way to luxury, though he must adjust his plans when a young orphan named Benji comes into his life.
The Cast And Crew
Kane Robinson, aka the rapper Kano, plays Izi, while Jedaiah Bannerman co-stars as Benji. The rest of the cast of The Kitchen includes Hope Ikpoku Jr, Teija Kabs, Demmy Ladipo, Cristale, BackRoad Gee, Rasaq Kukoyi, Reuben ‘Trizzy’ Nyamah, Henry Lawfull, Alan Asaad, and Ian Wright. The film is also the feature-length directorial debut of filmmaker Kibwe Tavares and actor Daniel Kaluuya. Kaluuya also co-wrote the screenplay with Joe Murtagh.
Daniel Kaluuya’s Involvement
Daniel Kaluuya’s creative hand in The Kitchen makes absolute sense and seems like the perfect extension of his career so far. Kaluuya is no stranger to starring in films that blend social commentary with action and drama in a satisfying way. Just looking at his previous filmography of Get Out, Nope, Queen & Slim, Judas and The Black Messiah, and Black Panther proves this.
The Reception So Far
The Kitchen just came out on Netflix last week, so reviews are still going to be coming in. But so far, things are very positive. Critics and audiences have praised the film for being a grounded and realistic sci-fi, which bodes well for the future directing careers of both Kaluuya and Tavares. Those who like sci-fi worldbuilding will also enjoy the film, as critics have frequently praised this aspect of the movie as well.
Kaluuya’s Future
Directing The Kitchen is definitely a cool career move for Daniel Kaluuya, but fans are also eager to know when we can see him command the screen as an actor again. Kaluuya only appeared in one movie last year, but he made a major impression as the voice of Hobie Brown, aka Spider-Punk, in Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Hobie instantly became a fan-favorite character thanks to Kaluuya’s performance, and fans are patiently waiting to learn when we can see him again in Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse, which was delayed without setting a release date.
Daniel Kaluuya is also set to star in another Netflix sci-fi titled The Upper World, which is adapted from the debut novel by Femi Fadugba. There’s no word on a release date yet for that film, either. In the meantime, go check out The Kitchen to see Kaluuya’s work behind the camera.
