Following the trend of acclaimed chef-table docuseries that reveal the inner workings of high-end kitchens, Mandarin Oriental presents its own unique perspective with ‘Inside The Dream’. This 53-minute film, which premiered on 27 June at the group’s flagship Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, provides an exclusive look behind the scenes of luxury hospitality – a view usually reserved for trusted insiders and discreet concierge teams.
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What Exactly Is ‘Inside The Dream’?
Imagine a cinematic collage capturing three high-stakes luxury events, each set at a different Mandarin Oriental location. The cameras follow managers, chefs, concierges, and banquet teams as they coax perfection out of chaos – demonstrating that exceptional service is built during backroom huddles just as much as during Champagne toasts.
Where Does The Action Unfold?
In London, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park hosts a high-profile charity auction featuring Alia Bhatt, where a delay in jewellery arrival adds a ripple of backstage urgency. The menu – a mix of British and Indian flavours – requires tight coordination and exacting standards from the culinary team to execute without a hitch.
In Bodrum, celebrations take shape along Turkey’s turquoise coast, as Mandarin Oriental marks its 10th anniversary with an open-air gala – including a live performance by Kylie Minogue – framed by the sweeping Aegean landscape.
And in Beijing, attention turns to the launch of Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, located within the city’s historic Hutong district. The evening brings together local tradition, architecture, and a commanding performance by Beijing-born piano virtuoso Yuja Wang – paying tribute to the cultural soul of the capital.
Who Are The Stars?
This isn’t a cast of A-listers – just name badges and practiced expertise. Area VP Torsten van Dullemen keeps operations running like clockwork in Knightsbridge; guest experience lead Yaren Arslan brings composed leadership to Bodrum’s shoreline festivities; and in Beijing, concierge Bob Shi manages every moving part with focus and a well-organised spreadsheet.
Captured entirely by producer Claude Lacaze of Terminal 9 Studios, the story is given the texture and pacing of a cinematic documentary – because in this world, even a covered dish arriving on cue speaks volumes.
Why It Matters?
Because luxury is theatre – and ‘Inside The Dream’ shifts the focus from the ballroom chandelier to the person making sure it gleams by sunrise. Group CEO Laurent Kleitman describes the film as ‘a tribute to colleagues who deliver meaningful experiences with grace, precision, and purpose.’ In other words: the next time you post a marble lobby to Instagram, spare a thought for the behind-the-scenes expert who made sure not a single luggage trolley left a trace.
How (And Where) To Watch
The documentary is now streaming globally on Prime Video, Canal+, and Tencent – no reservation required, robe optional. Cue it up, pour some bubbly, and see how the pursuit of flawless service can carry as much intensity as any on-screen drama. Just don’t blame us if you start folding napkins at home on a perfect 45-degree angle.
Catherine Pun
A Hong Kong native with Filipino-Chinese roots, Catherine infuses every part of her life with zest, whether she’s belting out karaoke tunes or exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. Her downtime often includes unwinding with Netflix and indulging in a 10-step skincare routine. As the Editorial Director of Friday Club., Catherine brings her wealth of experience from major publishing houses, where she refined her craft and even authored a book. Her sharp editorial insight makes her a dynamic force, always on the lookout for the next compelling narrative.
