Rare Flavours
Food and filmmaking mixed with philosophical musings on life and art drive the narrative flow in Rare Flavours, a delectable foray into the cuisine of India ensconced in all its sumptuous splendor and glory. Written by Ram V and illustrated by Filipe Andrade, the creative team behind The Many Deaths of Laila Starr, this graphic novel delves into the fine aesthetics of food while espousing upon larger than life observations, somewhat reminiscent of the leisurely style of Louis Malle’s My Dinner with Andre.
The story begins with Rubin Baksh, who upon discovering that Chef Anthony Bordain has died, embarks on an excursion of culinary proportions to share his love of food with the world. Along the way, he recruits a young college student named Mohan to accompany him in hopes of capturing the sights and tastes of his passion in a documentary. Little does Mohan realize that Rubin is actually a forest dwelling demon in disguise named Baksura, and that a pair of hunters are on the trail of this man-eating demon from the annals of Hindu mythology.
While the plot detracts from a standard structure of conflict, climax, and resolution, intricate details of Indian cuisine rise to the forefront. From the delicate aroma of masala chai and spicy richness of mirchi to the chunky succulence of raan and savory comfort of triple Schezwan rice, each chapter introduces a unique Indian fare, integrating recipes into the panels and illuminating side notes and stories with folkloric insight. Meandering from one locale to another, the fluid scenes meld red and orange simmering color tones, producing a mixture of sceneries cast in wide-angle shots spanning double-page spreads depicting vast desert landscapes and food and spice markets. This culinary travelogue resonates with a singular purpose in mind as summed up by Rubin: “To have shared my view of the world with one more person and to see them changed by it. To see them evolve.”
Although loosely constructed in terms of plotting, Rare Flavours excels in its unique exploration of the ingredients and dishes so commonly cherished in Indian cuisine, rendered through the narrative voice of an ancient demon who speaks with lyrical gentility. As such, this gastronomical meditation, enhanced by cinematic and mercurial shots replete with the sights and flavors of India from food carts to restaurants, will enrich adult graphic novel collections and serve up a savory, visual feast for the soul.
Rare Flavours
By Ram V
Art by Filipe Andrade
BOOM! Studios, 2024
ISBN: 9781608861538
NFNT Age Recommendation: Adult (18+)
Creator Representation: South Asian,
Character Representation: South Asian, Hindu ,
