The Taste of Things – Movie Review

The Taste of Things is an independent French film.

Tran Anh Hung’s latest film is “The Taste of Things.” It blends romance and culinary artistry in a sumptuous celebration of love and gastronomy. With a brilliant cast led by Juliette Binoche and Benoît Magimel, the film takes viewers on a journey into a world where passion ignites between the characters and within the rich tapestry of French cuisine. Directed by Tran Anh Hung, the film was honored with the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival. It is presented in French with English subtitles, guaranteeing a truly immersive experience for viewers around the world.

The opening scenes of Trần Anh Hùng’s ‘The Taste of Things’ showcase the preparation of one of the most visually stunning meals I have ever seen. How the kitchen artistry is filmed rivals even the best action scenes from blockbuster franchises like the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In short, ‘The Taste of Things’ is one of the finest examples of cooking portrayed on screen. The movie is set in 1889 France. It revolves around the romantic relationship between a cook, played by Juliette Binoche, and the gourmand she cooks for, played by Benoit Magimel. Although food plays a central role in the film, ‘The Taste of Things’ covers a wide range of emotions, from joy and hardship to passion and melancholy.

Binoche and Magimel portray their characters’ relationship with great expertise.

Their performance reveals their shared history without being too obvious. It’s evident that these two have gone through a lot together, but it’s their love for food that truly cements their bond. Their connection is unique yet entirely believable. The kitchen and home where most of the story takes place are both welcoming and isolating, making me long to escape to the French countryside. Hung’s direction perfectly captures the estate’s ambiance, creating an authentic and inviting setting that transports the viewer back in time.

Verdict

I give ‘The Taste of Things’ 4 out of 5 stars. This movie about food has quickly become one of my favorites. Although it’s a bit long, it will make you fall in love with the location and culinary expertise. Highly recommended. Read more Reviews on Nerdtropolis and make sure to subscribe to our YouTube.