Cigalon

About This Movie

Cigalon is a delightful little comedy that captures the quirks of provincial life. The film revolves around Alexandre Arnaudy, who plays the eponymous chef with a rather inflated sense of his culinary prowess. There’s an interesting mix of humor and melancholy as he neglects both his restaurant and the few customers who brave his doors, all while clinging to the glory days of his cooking. The pacing is leisurely, perfect for a film that revels in character-driven gags and the ambiance of a small town. The practical effects and set design really evoke that rustic charm of Provence, and the performances, particularly Arnaudy's, are engaging in their eccentricity. It’s a film that encapsulates a certain whimsical view of gastronomy and human nature.

Cigalon has seen a few releases over the years, mainly in DVD format, but its early prints are quite scarce. Collector interest fluctuates, but it often garners attention for its unique take on culinary pride and provincial life. The film isn't widely available, which adds to its allure among those who appreciate lesser-known gems from the 1930s.