The Taste of Things: A French Film Celebrating the Joy of Food and Love

While The Taste of Things didn’t make it to the final selection for the Best International Feature Film Academy Awards, it did earn Tran Anh Hung the prestigious Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival. Additionally, the film has received an impressive 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a testament to its critical acclaim.

Tran Anh Hung: A Talented Filmmaker Exploring Human Relationships

Tran Anh Hung, who immigrated to France at the age of 12 in 1975, is no stranger to exploring the complexities of human relationships through his films. His highly acclaimed 1993 film, The Scent of Green Papaya, delves into the lives of a dysfunctional Vietnamese family, ultimately unraveling a tale of blossoming love.

In The Taste of Things, Tran once again delves into the theme of love, but with a distinct French touch. The film revolves around the enduring bond between a renowned chef, Dodin (played by Benoît Magimel), and his skilled cooking partner, Eugenie (played by Juliette Binoche). Together, they strive to create an ever-evolving variety of sumptuous dishes, showcasing their mutual passion for culinary artistry.

Dodin, known as the “Napoleon of Gastronomy,” relies on Eugenie to bring his recipes to life. However, their relationship goes beyond mere culinary collaboration. Despite Eugenie rejecting Dodin’s marriage proposals for two decades, she resides in his house, and they share intimate moments together. This intriguing dynamic sets the stage for the film’s exploration of their deep devotion amidst Eugenie’s unwavering independence.

Immersing in French Cuisine: The Artistry and Precision

Tran draws inspiration from Marcel Rouff’s 1924 novel, La Vie et la passion de Dodin-Bouffant, gourmet, to transport viewers to the 1885 French countryside. Within Dodin’s estate, he hosts gatherings with friends, showcasing his culinary creations. The film’s plot primarily revolves around their enduring connection, peppered with subtle hints of longing and the potential for loss.

Rather than relying on an intricate narrative, The Taste of Things primarily focuses on the action within Dodin’s kitchen. From the preparation of a simple omelet to the intricate creation of dishes like ballotine of duck, crayfish with sweetbreads, and baked Alaska, the film immerses viewers in the artistry and precision of French cuisine.

The emotional core of Tran’s film lies in the transference of emotions such as joy and grief to our most basic human need for sustenance. The film beautifully conveys that satiating our hunger for food is often easier than fulfilling our desires for friendship, companionship, and love, regardless of how we define it.

A Celebration of French Culinary Tradition and Human Longing

No culture understands the profound emotional connection with food better than the French, and Tran, with his Vietnamese heritage and French sensibilities, expertly captures this essence. The Taste of Things serves as a celebration of the French culinary tradition and a poignant exploration of the universal human longing for connection and fulfillment.

For movie enthusiasts and food lovers alike, The Taste of Things offers a sensory feast that will leave audiences craving both culinary delights and the depth of human emotion. Tran Anh Hung’s film is a testament to the power of cinema to evoke visceral reactions and remind us of the shared experiences that unite us all.