Daniel Kaluuya reveals developing Netflix's 'The Kitchen' for 10 years during Jimmy Fallon's show

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In a recent appearance on Jimmy Fallon's show, Daniel Kaluuya, known for his remarkable acting, revealed a behind-the-scenes story of his directorial debut, 'The Kitchen' - a project he's been developing for an astounding ten years.

The conversation between Kaluuya and Fallon delved into the multifaceted nature of the project - not only did Kaluuya co-direct the film, but he also co-wrote and produced it.

Daniel Kaaluya's first directorial feature 'The Kitchen'

Fallon, noting the extensive workload, asked if Kaluuya had fun during the process. "I'm unveiling something I've been developing for an astounding ten years," Daniel Kaluuya said on his directorial debut on Jimmy Fallon's show.

The conversation between Kaluuya and Fallon delved into the multifaceted nature of this project. "Not only did I co-direct, but I also co-wrote and produced it," said Kaluuya highlighting the multifaceted nature of 'The Kitchen.'

"It was a fun experience, collaborating with Kibwe Tavares, with whom I co-directed the film," said Kaluuya affirming the enjoyable journey of creating 'The Kitchen.'

Barbershop brainstorm to Netflix debut

The journey of 'The Kitchen' began with a unique inspiration Kaluuya got at a barbershop. A chance encounter with a young individual discussing daring smash-and-grab heists sparked the actor's imagination.

The original concept, as revealed by Kaluuya, was like 'Reservoir Dogs' set in a barbershop. This led to the creation of a taster tape in January 2014, an initial step that eventually evolved into a full-fledged film over the next ten years.

"We got the idea in a barbershop—a young person discussing daring smash-and-grab heists sparked my imagination," quipped Kaluuya on the unique inspiration behind 'The Kitchen.'

"The original concept was like 'Reservoir Dogs' set in a barbershop," said Kaluuya.

'The Kitchen' showcases Daniel Kaluuya's hometown London

Kaluuya shared that they initially invested their own money, £200 ($255) each, to shoot the taster tape. "We initially invested £200 each to shoot the taster tape - a small-scale beginning that grew into 'The Kitchen.'"

"The Kitchen is now a cartoon and stars Steve Carrell. The actual film is vastly different from the original tape," Kaluuya humorously pointed out the film's evolution from the original concept.

Premiering at the BFI London Film Festival, the film holds special significance for Kaluuya, as it showcased in his hometown on closing night. The actor expressed pride "of the collaborative effort that brought 'The Kitchen' to life, emphasizing its representation of London." 

As Fallon inquired about the film's premise, Kaluuya explained, "'The Kitchen' revolves around a self-sufficient community in a near-future London."