LONDON – Netflix’s latest dystopian action drama, “The Kitchen,” directed by Daniel Kaluuya and Kibwe Tavares, presents a vivid portrayal of a near-futuristic London where systemic poverty creates its own dystopia. Set in the titular neighborhood, the film explores the lives of the underprivileged residents who struggle to survive in the face of soaring housing prices and a city that often turns a blind eye to their needs.
With public housing in the United Kingdom being sold off to private companies and transformed into luxury flats, the Kitchen remains one of the last affordable living options for people like Isaac, brilliantly portrayed by rapper Kane “Kano” Robinson. Despite the dilapidated state of the apartment complex and the constant threat of power and water shut-offs, the Kitchen maintains a vibrant atmosphere with bustling street vendors and a close-knit community.
The film highlights the stark contrast between the Kitchen’s cramped and outdated living conditions and the luxurious neighborhoods nearby, where driverless cars roam and high-end boutiques thrive. This juxtaposition emphasizes the injustice of housing inequality and the daily hardships faced by those trapped within the Kitchen’s confines.
Through poignant storytelling, “The Kitchen” reveals the systemic dehumanization of the poor. Isaac, who works in a company that composts the deceased, faces the inner struggle of promoting a service that erases the very existence of his neighbors. This erasure is not lost on young orphan Benji, played by Jedaiah Bannerman, who fears his own fate within the Kitchen and longs for a way out.
As Isaac and Benji form an unlikely bond, the film delves into themes of communal action and the power of found families. Their coming-of-age story unfolds against the backdrop of a society that offers them few alternatives. “The Kitchen” skillfully incorporates elements of speculative futurism to highlight the surveillance of at-risk communities and the organic response of protests to state-sponsored violence.
Despite the bleak circumstances, the film also captures moments of hope and beauty within the Kitchen. From intimate scenes between Isaac and Benji to the unexpected third-act dance sequence, “The Kitchen” showcases the resilience and spirit of its characters. As one of Netflix’s most powerful releases, it is sure to make waves and spark further discussion.
In an age where affordable housing crises plague communities worldwide, “The Kitchen” serves as a timely reminder of the devastating impacts of housing policies and the struggle for social equality. By presenting a dystopian future rooted in present-day realities, the film resonates with audiences and sheds light on the urgent need for change.
As “The Kitchen” streams on Netflix, its captivating storytelling and thought-provoking narrative will undoubtedly captivate viewers and elevate discussions surrounding housing inequality and societal injustices.