EDMONTON, AB - The Lebanese Burger Mafia, a crowd-funded documentary exposing an improbable connection between fast-food and Middle Eastern refugees, has been nominated for a prestigious James Beard Media Award. Often referred to as the Oscars of the food world, these awards are presented by the James Beard Foundation and celebrate excellence in culinary arts, showcasing the best in global food culture.
The Lebanese Burger Mafia has been recognized in the category of Documentary Visual Media, which honours outstanding achievements in food-related documentary productions. The winner will be announced at a gala event in Chicago on June 8, 2024.
Based on the popular short film The Last Baron, this crowd-funded feature documentary about Burger Baron—a renegade fast-food chain with enigmatic origins, a devoted following, and a clandestine path to the immigrant dream. It follows Omar Mouallem, the filmmaker and heir to a Burger Baron franchise, as he chases clues through rural Alberta, capturing the trials and tribulations of Arab immigrants and a relentless battle over the burger chain’s trademark rights.
Praised for its rich blend of economic, cultural, culinary, and familial histories, it's garnered acclaim since its premiere at Hot Docs in 2023, winning numerous awards, including Best Documentary at the Northwest International Documentary Festival.
"I never imagined this quirky little story about fast-food would find such a wide audience, but I think it speaks to the power of immigration stories to inspire and touch people's hearts," says director Omar Mouallem about his deeply personal feature film.
With its recent premiere on Paramount+ Canada and U.S. premiere at the Arab Film Festival hosted by the Arab American National Museum, The Lebanese Burger Mafia continues to delight audiences around the globe.
Click here to watch the trailer. An EPK private screener, and additional assets can be provided on request. You might also find this timeline of Burger Baron’s history useful.
Interview inquiries: Director/coproducer, Omar Mouallem can be reached at omouallem@gmail.com.
Sales inquiries: Blake McWilliam, Back Road Productions (blake@backroadproductions.ca)
Website: BurgerBaronMovie.com
Instagram/Facebook: @BurgerBaronMovie