In the Flesh (2025)
In the Flesh is a short film by writer-director Emily Frances Kaplan. Shot in New Jersey, the story is about Suzanne, a seemingly perfect wife who has a secret. She’s obsessed with grade-A meat and the local butcher who knows how to handle it.
Over a short three days, we fed a crew of around 24 members, trained an actor in knife skills, and assisted the art department with culinary preparations. We worked directly with Eman Akram Nader and Caroline Voagen Nelson of Cupaloy Studio to source kitchen props and meats for the film.
The Crafty Menu
On some productions, we get to read the script. And while it doesn't make it on camera, adding hints to the craft service table can really tie the experience together with the crew.
For one lunch, we served harissa chickpeas with grilled chorizo, farro, and fresh greens. The love interest in the film suggests harissa to Suzanne, the housewife, and it's a very tempting moment between them.
For an offsite part of the shoot, we set up outside Darke Pines, a butcher shop located in Jersey City. Breakfast had to be portable and quick, so we opted for breakfast burritos with eggs, salsa, and cheese.
Another highlight was our bright cucumber salad that accompanied chicken souvlaki skewers. We think fresh herbs and crunchy condiments can really brighten your day when you're on your feet for most of it. We used fried shallots, lemon zest, and mint to bring out the cucumber and tomato.
The Art Department
In addition to craft service, we were able to help out the art team. Through various pre-production consultations, we assisted with culinary props like tools and cookbooks to dress the room. We also spent a little time with one of our leads to teach them how to safely hold a knife as a butcher would.
We were happy to lend a hand sourcing all of the meat seen in the film and consulted on the culinary shot list. Anything that was vacuum-sealed, trussed, and plated, we had a hand in it (literally!).
The cookbooks you see behind Suzanne (above) are from our personal collection. And it was funny to realize that most of our meat and BBQ cookbooks were all in the red spectrum!
Press & Screenings
Christie Spessard
The Crew
Written & Directed: Emily Frances Kaplan
Producers: Bre Thomas, Rose Tory
UPM: Caroline Conrad
Director of Photography: Nona Catusanu
Production Design: Cupaloy Studio
Editor: Chris Rand
Music: Dabney Morris
Color: Samuel Gursky
Casting: Emily Rucker
Makeup: Justine Sierakowski
Craft Services: Family Party Catering
CAST
Miriam Silverman
Luca Tullio
Eric Miller
Serena Parrish
Frances Li
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