True/False Films

Pressure Cooker

In person: directors Jennifer Grausman and Mark Becker

The famously blunt Wilma Stephenson runs a culinary arts boot camp at a Philadelphia high school, whipping both students and their cooking skills into shape. Behind her tough-talking exterior is a teacher who cares passionately about getting the best out of her students and making sure they receive the opportunities, including scholarships to top programs, denied to so many in their disadvantaged neighborhood. The three students at the heart of this film already carry substantial responsibilities on their young shoulders. Erica looks after her blind sister, Tyree juggles football, cooking and the expectations of his single mom, and Mali-born Fatoumata cares for a controlling father. Progressing through the competition, the students discover their strengths and skills and begin dreaming of a better future. Engaging and emotionally charged, Pressure Cooker offers a glimpse at students on the brink of adulthood, battling it for success, with a hilarious and determined mentor cheering them on. You will too. (IK)