Foodies Go to the Movies

When it is too hot to cook, sometimes you must resort to your big screen television to get your foodie fix.  Here are a few movie gems you may have missed that celebrate food and life:

[youtube id=”MC9iRsoHS04″ width=”620″ height=”360″]

Today’s Special – Heartwarming story revolving around family, generational gaps, and finding one’s way back through food.  This movie was viewed originally by me and was so good Sous Chef and I watched it together the very next day.   Oh, and did I mention that actress/cookbook author Madhur Jaffrey appears in this flick?  Best enjoyed with tandoori naan and Muscat wine.  Available on Netflix and Amazon.

[youtube id=”BKCWELGjpg8″ width=”620″ height=”360″]

Romantics Anonymous – Dysfunctional chocolate makers and relationships at their finest and strangest.  Warning, this movie is surprisingly funny and you will want to watch it again.  Make sure to get some chocolates and good Champagne for your viewing companions.  Available on Netflix and Amazon.

[youtube id=”q-jlmaYX2n0″ width=”620″ height=”360″]

Mostly Martha – This 2001 German film captures runs the range of emotions.  Comedy, drama, and romance all packaged in one delectable little movie.  Catherine Zeta Jones starred in a 2007 remake called “No Reservations,” but it lacked the genuineness this movie conveys.  Get tissues, a good bottle of German white wine, a strudel of your choice, and a blanket to snuggle under.   English subtitles.  Available on Netflix and Amazon.

[youtube id=”wilsiJB7gRQ” width=”620″ height=”360″]

Simply Irresistible – Sous Chef loves this movie due to the magical crab and the adorable character that Sarah Michelle Geller plays.  It is a cute romantic comedy centered on a chef learning that sublime food must be crafted from one’s heart and soul (using the freshest ingredients, of course).   Light hearted and amusing.  Best enjoyed with shellfish and Champagne.  Available on Netflix and Amazon.

[youtube id=”4FANGIUNbiA” width=”620″ height=”360″]

Dinner of Fools (Le Diner de Cons) – Clever 1998 French comedy that will have you in stitches.  This movie was also remade years later as Dinner for Schmucks and starred Steve Carell.  While the remake has its funny moments, lets’ face facts:  nothing beats the original, especially when it comes to French comedies.   Best enjoyed with a sourdough baguette, an assortment of French cheeses, and a bottle of Burgundy.  English subtitles.  Available on Netflix and Amazon.

[youtube id=”z54fpzgqbPk” width=”620″ height=”360″]

Christmas In Connecticut – Turn the air conditioning down and set the mood for Christmas in July.  After all, if Hallmark can run holiday movies in July why can’t you?  This is one of my favorite holiday movies.  It has everything I look for:  romance, comedy, confusion, and food!   Oh, and the cast is phenomenal.   You may just want to add this one to your permanent Christmas holiday collection.  Best enjoyed with bacon wrapped dates stuffed with blue cheese and a Manhattan (see Cocktails section for a great recipe).  Available on Netflix and Amazon.

[youtube id=”1tSifCTYxRo” width=”620″ height=”360″]

Toast – An under the radar movie when it was released that explores the early culinary days of none other than Nigel Slater.   Helena Bonham Carter and Slater’s food are co-stars.  It is pretty amazing to see how far Slater’s food, preparation, and presentation have come.  Best enjoyed with a Gin and Tonic and cucumber finger sandwiches.  Available on Netflix and Amazon.

[youtube id=”O4zeyuk8hL8″ width=”620″ height=”360″]

Somm  – This documentary on the path to becoming a Master Sommelier is currently in theatres and available for rent or purchase on iTunes.  This movie is for wine snobs, wine-wannabes, and those considering throwing away 27 years in banking and enrolling in UC Davis’ Winemaking Certification Courses.  Warning:  you must be open to drinking all varietals of wine, including Merlot.  Best enjoyed with a flight of wines and a charcuterie platter.   Available in select local theatres and on iTunes.

[youtube id=”2cNzCKdBj90″ width=”620″ height=”360″]

King of Pastry – If you have overdosed on the Food Channel’s pastry competitions, or think much of it is enhanced for the TV viewing audience, this is the documentary for you.  It feels real, is passionate, and, believe it or not, will have you on the edge of your seat in anticipation of what’s going to happen.  A must for all passionate bakers and food enthusiasts.   Best enjoyed with pastries and cappuccino.  Available on Netflix and Amazon.

[youtube id=”TiBWHHqK7W8″ width=”620″ height=”360″]

Wine for the Confused – Who knew John Cleese is a wine aficionado?  Well, he is—big time.  In this film, John Cleese attempts to educate the viewer about wine through and his wine philosophy a wonderfully humorous fashion.  This is perfect for new wine enthusiasts, seasoned winos, and anyone who enjoys John Cleese.  There are parts of this film that Sous Chef quotes over and over, such has been its impact on him.  Best enjoyed with a hearty California red and cocktail sausages or meatballs.  Available on Netflix and Amazon.