Off the Menu: The Last Days of Chasen's (1998) – Expert Review | Official Watch Links
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Off the Menu: The Last Days of Chasen's (1998) Synopsis, Cast, Reviews & Watch Links
Movie Stats
Off the Menu: The Last Days of Chasen's
- Release Date: 1998-06-19
- Genres: Documentary, Drama
- Rating: 7.3 (3 votes)
- Runtime: 90 min
-
Subtitles:
English, Dutch
Review & Score: Off the Menu: The Last Days of Chasen's
StreamValid Editorial Review
In 1995, Chasen's closed its doors after 60 years of serving chili to movie stars and visiting dignitaries, Presidents and the Pope. During its two final weeks, Chasen regulars (actors and producers), staff, and management sat for interviews. (Auto Summary)
✅ Pros — 2
- Positive audience reception.
- Strong acting performance.
✖ Cons — 1
- —
- Neutral point not specified.
- Detailed critic review not available yet.
Synopsis
In 1995, Chasen's closed its doors after 60 years of serving chili to movie stars and visiting dignitaries, Presidents and the Pope. During its two final weeks, Chasen regulars (actors and producers), staff, and management sat for interviews. There's an Oscar party for 1500, footage and photos of famous diners, and time with Tommy Gallagher, the ebullient head waiter until retirement in 1994, his son Patrick, catering head Raymond Bilbool, general manager Ronnie Clint, hat check girl Val Schwab, ladies' room attendant Onetta Johnson, and foreign- born waiters, including Jaime. When he started in 1970, like other Latins, he wasn't allowed out of the kitchen. It's a family farewell.
Off the Menu: The Last Days of Chasen's is a thoughtful exploration of truth, reality, and untold stories. Meticulously researched and presented with clarity, it sheds light on compelling topics that provoke thought and inspire change.
Visually, the film is a marvel — every shot meticulously framed to enhance emotion and tone. The cinematography captures the story’s essence, whether through sweeping panoramas or intimate moments. Direction is assured, guiding the audience through the narrative with confident pacing and clear vision. Music and sound design underscore key scenes, elevating tension and enhancing immersion. Every creative element works in unison to produce a memorable and polished experience.
Off the Menu: The Last Days of Chasen's provides more than just entertainment — it delivers resonance. Audiences are drawn into its emotional undercurrents, finding moments of joy, sorrow, and revelation. The storytelling offers layers that reward thoughtful viewing, blending accessible thrills with deeper meaning. From quiet introspections to intense confrontations, it maintains an emotional rhythm that captivates. It’s the kind of film that lingers in memory, inspiring discussion and introspection long after the credits roll.
In the end, Off the Menu: The Last Days of Chasen's stands as a shining example of cinematic craft — a harmonious blend of narrative, performance, and technical achievement. It delivers a satisfying arc, fully realizing the potential of its story and characters. Whether you're a loyal follower of or a curious newcomer, this film offers something truly special. It speaks to the power of film as art, storytelling, and shared experience. Few titles manage to resonate so deeply across so many levels — this is one of them.
If you're interested in more great documentary films, you might also enjoy: The Cove, Blackfish, 13th, Free Solo, My Octopus Teacher.
Cast & Characters
- Sally Kellerman as Self
- Martin Landau as Self
- David Frost as Self
- Ed McMahon as Self
- Margaret O'Brien as Self
- Suzanne Pleshette as Self
- Don Rickles as Self
- Sharon Stone as Self
- Robert Wagner as Self
- Quentin Tarantino as Self
Gallery
No images available.
Where to Watch (US)
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