Today's Special
Today's Special was a Canadian children's television show produced by Clive VanderBurgh at TVOntario from 1981 to 1987. It also ran on Nickelodeon and the Faith and Values Channel/Odyssey as well as many PBS stations throughout the United States. It was set in a department store, based on the flagship location of the now defunct Simpson's in Toronto. Many sequences for it were shot at the Queen Street West and Yonge Street store after hours.
Insights
Plot Summary
A lonely, obsessive New York pastry chef named Arthur feels his life is a masterpiece of culinary precision, but a void in his personal life. When his uncle dies, he travels to Paris to settle the estate. There, he encounters a mysterious and aloof baker who challenges Arthur's culinary and personal assumptions. The film explores themes of identity, artistic ambition, and the search for connection through the lens of professional cooking.
Critical Reception
Today's Special received mixed to positive reviews upon its release. Critics often praised its unique premise and atmospheric qualities, particularly the depiction of the culinary world. However, some found the pacing to be deliberate and the narrative occasionally opaque. Audiences were generally receptive to its artistic sensibilities.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its artistic vision and atmospheric portrayal of the culinary arts.
- Some critics found the film's narrative to be slow-paced and somewhat ambiguous.
- Appreciated for its unique exploration of an artist's solitary life and aspirations.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews is not readily available for this film.
Fun Fact
The film was shot on location in Paris and New York City, capturing the distinct culinary atmospheres of both cities.
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