Paavo, a Life in Five Courses

The film chronicles Paavo Turtiainen's transformation from a farm boy to a personal secretary and ultimately an acclaimed chef. His early life in the Parisian household of Swedish theatre producer Lars Schmidt and actress Ingrid Bergman sets the stage for his interactions with the elite. As he learns to navigate the world of the rich and famous, Paavo builds significant personal archives for both Schmidt and Bergman, with these archives now residing in prestigious institutions.

After the divorce of Schmidt and Bergman, Paavo relocates to New York City, where he begins working with celebrities and business personalities he met in Paris. His journey is marked by self-discovery and resilience, ultimately leading him to become a sought-after chef and event planner for high society. The documentary not only highlights his culinary achievements but also emphasizes the importance of his early influences and experiences in shaping his career and life choices.