Nigerian culinary artist and writer Tunde Wey’s poetic documentary series, “Hard to Swallow,” is set to debut at Cannes International Series Festival on April 8. The series chronicles Wey’s critique of the social structures that disenfranchise Black people globally offering a blend of culinary, poetic, and political elements.
“Hard to Swallow” directed by Wey and Theo Schear which is in English, Yoruba, and Spanish with subtitles in French and English, challenges contemporary America’s systemic racism and aims to provoke introspection and radical thought through Wey’s journey. The documentary is a fusion of realism and experimentation, aiming to educate and engage audiences on issues of race, class, and social justice.
Born Akintunde “Tunde” Asuquo Osaigbuovo Ojo Wey in 1983 in Lagos, Nigeria, Wey is a chef and writer known for using Nigerian food to explore themes of colonialism, capitalism, and racism. After immigrating to the United States in 1999, he pursued his interest in cooking, eventually gaining recognition for hosting pop-up dinners that spark social and political conversations.
In his career, Wey has been involved in various projects that challenge societal norms and address issues of race, class, and social justice through the lens of food and culture. His work often intersects with themes of exploitation and inequality.
Some of Tunde Wey’s notable write-ups and works include, “Black women are the future of the food industry”, “Yes We Cannibal,” a project space for new art and thought that hosts geographically diverse artists, musicians, and thinkers, focusing on artistic and cultural taboo, transgression, and experimentation.
