7.4 stars.
At first I was liking 'Diagnosis Delicious', the actors are fresh, not the same ones I've seen over and over. The lead female's character is unusual as a cardiologist who can't cook (this film centers around cooking), but she's very laid back and kind. It's a strange mix of personality traits in a lead role for a woman, which I enjoy. The lead male is a celebrity chef down on his luck due to an incident of tossing food in a critic's face. He has been somewhat blacklisted. The cardiologist needs the chef to help her with her career, and in return he could be rewarded by securing a stable job. There is a total absence of attraction for a good long while as they marinate in the friend zone, making the movie slow.
It's mainly about a chef and a cardiologist, but there are two side stories that focus on the cardiologist's best friend (a neurosurgeon) and her ex, and also an ill woman and her estranged daughter.
In one scene, her friend stress eats three full plates of appetizers she's prepared for the chef. My problem: it's so offensive. True friends don't mistreat like this, and it's totally obnoxious and rude. She shrugs it off as just another day being her best friend's doormat. Heck no! Funny thing, this act is out of character for her friend, so it's all the more confusing and distasteful to watch.
Be prepared for sad and sobering moments, people are sick and dying. She is a cardiologist after all, and the setting is in a hospital.
The romance finally kicks in, but feels a bit too little too late. However, there is some good chemistry between them, so it's entertaining enough to hold my attention. 'Diagnosis Delicious' is missing some key elements. The chef makes a rash decision that feels out of place, the story drags on, and the end is too rushed...probably the director's fault.
There are some recognizable faces that may surprise you.