The verdict is in: Iron Chef(Fri. & Sat., 9pm, Food Network) is one of the most bizarrely entertaining programs to see on TV. I wrote at length about the Japanese import a few columns ago, based on interviews, background information, and conjecture. But even I couldn’t imagine just how strange, funny, and oh-so-very-Japanese the cooking show is. Since watching four episodes, or “battles” — Broccoli Battle, Red Snapper Battle, Rice Battle, and Guinea Hen Battle — and chatting with El Papi Chulo, as well as one reader, about the program, here are some post-viewing comments.
|
Iron Chef‘s master of ceremonies Kaga Takeshi |
The great thing about Iron Chef is that you don’t have to be a foodie to enjoy it. Frenetic camera work and a sense of pomp that borders on the absurd keep El Chulo interested, so much so that he gets miffed when the show breaks from routine and does not ceremoniously present all the Iron Chefs on their rising platforms accompanied by smoke and music. Last week’s episode not only presented the French Iron Chef to the challenger alone, but also gave the chefs the added challenge of presenting the theme food (guinea hen) on Wedgwood China (ooh, ahh!).
My only complaint with the show is that the guest judges, typically Japanese actors and actresses, babble constantly, presumably in an effort to take the edge off the tension in the cooking arena. And believe me, the tension is very real. Pride, honor, and reputations are on the line in each of the battles. In last week’s Guinea Hen Battle, the French Iron Chef nearly collapsed into tearful relief upon being named the victor.
Thankfully, Iron Chef is dubbed into English. A friend in the Bay Area said that the version she sees (via Hawaii) has dropped the dubbing, making it more difficult to follow. It’s doubtful that the Food Network will follow suit, unless it’s really looking to kill the campy food show. As it is, it could use a little more promotional help. The network did little to fully prepare viewers for what Iron Chef is, so whether it’s gained an audience is unclear. My wish would be that the network pare away some time from the overexposed Emeril Lagasse, and give at least one more time slot to Iron Chef. Until then, El Chulo and I will continue to map our Friday evenings around Iron Chef, eagerly waiting for the moment in the opening credits when Iron Chef host Kaga Takeshi takes a salacious bite out of a yellow bell pepper, followed by a knowing, euphoric smile to the camera. Why does he do that? El Chulo asked me the first time. Who knows, but it sure is a hoot to watch.
Take a station break at TVEye@auschron.com
This article appears in August 6 • 1999 and August 6 • 1999 (Cover).