City of Gold (Laura Gabbert, 2015): United States Edit | Quick Edit | Trash | View

Reviewed by Satara Arthaud. Viewed at the Santa Barbara Film Festival 2016.

Only knowing that the film City of Gold was a documentary, and being person who enjoys watching documentaries, however after a long day of classes and work I was prepared to be intrigued but to not expect much. Nevertheless the film exceeded my expectations and left me with a better understanding of L.A. and hungry for more. Not knowing who Jonathan Gold was the film did a wonderful job of capturing his love with the city of Los Angeles and his obsession for experiencing different cultures through food. However, the film was not just about who Jonathan Gold is. There’s a much deeper meaning to him and his food critic career. The scenes which show how much Jonathan being a well renowned food critic and his love for the city of Los Angeles has changed so many “mom and pap, hole in the wall,” kind of restaurants and therefore families lives. The film also allows us to see a more personal side to who Johnathan is, not only as a food critic but a well rounded person and father. Mainly shot in the city of Los Angeles the film explores the variety of L.A.’s diverse culture,and sense of community. I believe that under lying message to the film was the message that even though something may look/seem ordinary,if given a chance could actually be quite extraordinary. With moving opera and classic California rap, along with humorous car rides, if you had never been a fan of Los Angeles you may be reconsidering once the film is over. My one and only advice is to not watch this film on an empty stomach.