As history closed in on Robert Mugabe’s 37-year-long rule in late 2017, the romantic comedy Cook Off was being produced under exceptional circumstances in Zimbabwe’s capital Harare. Enduring cash, power and water shortages, riots, and the devastating consequences of a countrywide economic crisis, this unlikely feel-good movie emerged to represent a new generation of talent in Zimbabwean filmmaking.

Working with the set of Zimbabwe’s real-life ‘Battle of the Chefs’ television show, and reflective of the passion and commitment of the film’s cast and crew, Cook Off’s production values vastly outweigh the US$8,000 cash budget that was available to the filmmakers during production itself.
The cast and crew all agreed to work on deferred payment contracts, which have now been honoured. The film was also made possible by leveraging existing relationships with companies and producers who came on board as partners to give in-kind support the film. In Harare, MMX provided the equipment, creator of Wenera Eddie Ndhlovu supported with some additional cast and locations, creator of Battle of the Chefs Joseph Bunga provided set, props and costumes from the real-life tv show, and various businesses provided location. In Nairobi, Quite Bright Films facilitated the final edit and picture grade, while in London, Moving Air did the final sound mix. Executive Producer Zoe Flood has supported, and continues to do so, across the post-production and distribution process.