Barbecue competition, for those involved, is a serious sport. Considered
almost a contagion, those who carry the “bug”, work long hours
perfecting their barbecue over extended periods of time. The chance
to be among the few called up on the stage is a constant yearn to compete.

But there can be a price to pay. Not only is it costly for the supplies
like the meats and equipment, there are extra costs associated with travel. Some cooks travel in excess of  30,000 miles in a given year. This passion to win
can lead to strains upon marriages, and even strains upon barbecue friendships.

And yet, still they come, and still they continue to compete. Barbecue competitions are growing more than 10% a year, and have spread to places across the country, and the world. This documentary examines the nature of some of these extreme competitors, and the conflicts that ensue in the intense but also fun-loving sport of championship competition.

Back Story:

During the summer of 2003, we began research on a documentary film about barbecue competition that led us to The American Royal Barbecue, one of the biggest BBQ competitions in the world. After interviewing a number of teams to find one veteran team, and one novice team, we found veteran Larry Mayes (2 Fat Larrys), and “newbie” Scott Jones (Northwoods Mesquite-toes), who had never before competed.

From the start, it was clear that Scott had the personality to leap into something new, and make things happen. As his wife commented, Scott likes to do things big. Inside The World of Championship Barbecue was completed in January of 2004. In August of that year, Scott sent us a letter updating his progress since his first event. He had invested a considerable sum of money in new equipment, including his new cooker, and a garage he built to house it. More significantly, since the Royal, he had invested considerable effort perfecting his barbecue, and entering contests throughout the Midwest.

His letter formed the basis for our decision to return to the American Royal in October of 2004, to examine the passion behind competition, focusing again on Scott Jones, and other competition cooks. Who are these people, and what are the effects of the extraordinary commitments to competing on their barbecue friendships, and family members? Why are they willing to endure the mental, physical, and financial burdens this sport requires to succeed?

Of course, the logical name for this film came about through sheer luck. Although Scott Jones is not the only competitor featured, he embodies the spirit of these extreme competitors. The BBQ jones is about passion and unending commitment toward reaching a goal. Is the passion an addiction, or is it a recipe for leading a rewarding life? Perhaps, as this film will reveal, it’s more than a little of both.