Kings of Pastry is a unique documentary that captures the high stakes drama of the prestigious Meilleurs Ouvriers de France (Best Craftsmen in France) pastry competition. Captured on film here for the first time, this three-day contest defines excellence. The 16 finalists exemplify passion, dedication, sacrifice, skill and artistry, sculpting everything from delicate chocolates to six-foot sugar sculptures in hopes of winning one of the coveted blue, white and red striped collars worn by France's very best pastry chefs.
The film follows chef Jacquy Pfeiffer, co-founder of Chicago's French Pastry school, and profiles two other finalists — chef Régis Lazard, who is competing for the second time (he dropped his sugar sculpture the first time), and chef Philippe Rigollot from Maison Pic, France's only three-star restaurant owned by a woman. The portrait of these men is as much of a treat as their delectable creations. We see them as fathers, husbands and professionals who display remarkable humility and respect for their fellow competitors. For them, the quest to become great clearly extends beyond the kitchen to permeate every aspect of their lives.
Kings of Pastry is a valuable outreach tool for anyone hoping to inspire people to do their best — in the kitchen, at work, in school or in life.
Download the discussion guide for Kings of Pastry: