The Taste of Things (2023): Gastronomy as Cinematic Language
2023 • Trần Anh Hùng • 1.85:1 • Jump to Gallery ↓
Adapted from the gastronomic novel “La Vie et la passion de Dodin-Bouffant, gourmet” by Marcel Rouff, The Taste of Things is directed by Tran Anh Hung. Set in late 19th-century France, the story centers on the renowned gourmet Dodin Bouffant and his longtime cook Eugénie. For more than twenty years, they have collaborated in creating elaborate meals, their relationship blending artistic partnership with unspoken romantic affection.
Rather than focusing on dramatic conflict, the story unfolds through a series of culinary rituals and shared meals that gradually reveal the emotional bond between the two characters. The film places strong emphasis on gastronomic authenticity, with professional chefs involved in designing and preparing the dishes shown on screen. As a result, it stands as a rare example of gastronomy functioning as the central narrative language of a dramatic film.
With the kitchen serving as the primary environment, the film devotes extended screen time to real-time food preparation. Cooking sequences often unfold in long takes, showing the meticulous gestures of chopping vegetables, preparing sauces, assembling elaborate dishes, and plating the final compositions. The cinematography by Jonathan Ricquebourg relies heavily on soft natural light, creating a tactile sense of texture across food, fabrics, and wooden surfaces. The result is a film defined by visual refinement and atmospheric storytelling.
Technical Specs:
- The Story: Set in late-19th-century France, the story follows a gourmet chef and his long-time cook, who share a deep bond built on food, artistry, and an unspoken affection. However, when the chef embarks on a singular act of devotion, everything changes.
- Actors: Juliette Binoche, Benoît Magimel, Emmanuel Salinger, Patrick d’Assumçao, Galatea Bellugi, Jan Hammenecker, Frédéric Fisbach, Bonnie Chagneau-Ravoire, Jean-Marc Roulot.
- Director: Trần Anh Hùng
- Year: 2023
- Cinematographer: Jonathan Ricquebourg
- Origin: French Cinema
- Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1
- Genre: Drama & Romance
