The Best Porridge in the World

“The Best Porridge in the World” is a documentary about the World Porridge Making Championship. Every autumn, it takes place in the mountain village of Carrbridge in northern Scotland. Local and international competitors compete there for the Golden Spurtle award. However, the film shows not only the culinary contest but also the villagers, a living tradition, local heritage, and community.

The recipe is simple: oats, water, and salt. Yet every participant has their own method, philosophy, and story. The film features, among others:

• Charlie Miller - a local legend and championship organizer. He is nearing retirement and has health problems. He feels responsible toward the local porridge committee and wants to secure the future of the competition and his own legacy.
• Ian Bishop - makes a final attempt to win the title.
• Lisa Williams - the “porridge queen,” returns to win back the trophy.
• Toby Wilson - an Australian chef known for his idea of a porridge tortilla.
• Adam Kiani - uses a secret technique inherited from his grandmother.

Toby Wilson and Adam Kiani represent a new generation of participants who intend to challenge the existing balance of power in the contest.

The film portrays the life of a small Scottish community against a backdrop of mountain landscapes. The description compares it to “The Truffle Hunters” and “Honeyland,” documentaries in which the characters are accompanied with tenderness and understanding. The whole is kept in a humorous, warm tone.