Do you dream of lasagne? Are you in a close relationship with two men called Ben and Jerry? Do you love pizza more than anything? Whether you’re simply suffering from post-bake-off blues, or spend most of the day thinking about food, you’re probably hungry for more programmes about food. Here is a menu of 10 deliciously and delectably made movies, that will satisfy your cravings for movies that combine food, cookery, and often a pinch of humour.
Chef (2014)
This film is certainly a must-see for all self-proclaimed foodies. Chef follows Chef Carl as he quits the restaurant trade and follows his own dreams or owning a Taco-Truck. Full of gentle comedy, heart-warming family scenes, and most importantly, a tonne of food talk and food porn; you will recommend this film to all your friends.
(Photo Credit: More Time to Travel)
Ratatouille (2008)
As a foodie, this may just be my all-time favourite Pixar movie. A charming rat dreams of becoming a French chef, and can only do so with the help of his human friend, Linguine. The animation in this film is masterful, certainly warranting the films Academy award for best-animated feature film, and as such, the food seems beautifully real. This is a real feel good movie, even if you aren’t a foodie, which will leave you hungry for more of Brad Bird’s work!
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate factory (1971)
A classic; this film really encapsulates every kid’s (and most adult’s) dreams. A child, Charlie, from a poor background has the chance to visit Willy Wonka’s famous chocolate factory. Gene Wilder is incredible as the films eponymous protagonist, bringing both mystery and a devious, fun-loving personality to the role. However, the real star of the show? The gigantic chocolate river.
Julie and Julia (2009)
There are very few movies that can achieve sophisticated yet heart-warming comedy; Julie and Julia is one of them. The film follows two true stories, which intertwine in the most brilliant way. Meryl Streep plays Julia Child in her journey to fame, and Amy Adams plays Julie Powell, as she cooks her way through all 534 recipes in Julia’s cookbook. This deliciously charming, feminist work-of-art will warm your cockles. If Julie and Julia were a food, it would be a comfort food like Julia’s infamous boeuf bourguignon; comforting, sophisticated and so delicious!
Chocolat (2000)
Johnny Depp + chocolate… What more could you want? This romance follows a mother and daughter’s story as they move to rural France and open a Chocolaterie. If you love chocolate (and let’s face it, who doesn’t), then most of the scenes in this film will leave you hungry for more!
(Photo credit: Chagford Film Festival)
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs (2009)
You might dismiss this animated movie as just a kid’s film, but hear me out. The film follows a budding scientist who manages to make rain into food (hence the films obscure title), but disaster is afoot (no spoilers). This light-hearted comedy is simultaneously riddled with messages of obesity and environmental destruction… but don’t let that get you down! Miller also invites us to watch vivid animation of nacho cheese fountains, ice-cream mountains, and, of course, giant meatballs.
Big Night (1996)
This low-budget feast of a film is an absolute must-see. It follows two brothers as they emigrate from Italy to America in the hopes of running a top restaurant. With moments of comic genius, as well as moments that will tug at your heartstrings, the brothers’ food journey will keep you on the edge of your seat. The yummiest scene must be the unveiling of the Timballo, which is guaranteed to leave you drooling!
Mostly Martha (2001)
As both a foodie, and an avid watcher of German cinema, this German comedy about food seemed perfect. Martha is a talented chef, but after her sister dies, her world is turned upside down. While highly predictable, this film provides great characters, a compelling story, and, most importantly, tasty food scenes. If you’re interested in international cinema, this is the one for you.
(Photo Credit: Reeling Reviews)
Jiro dreams of Sushi (2012)
Even if you don’t like sushi, I would highly recommend Jiro Dreams of Sushi. This documentary film follows Jiro Ono, one of the world’s greatest sushi chefs, at 85 years old. His attention to detail and push for utter perfection is truly inspirational. Not only is Jiro Ono incredible, but the exquisite beauty of the chefs work is absolutely phenomenal.
Sausage party (2016)
This film is slightly different from all the others on the list, as the main characters in Sausage Party are actually items of food. This film follows a sausage’s journey into the revelation that humans eat food and kill them. It’s hardly a masterpiece, but if you enjoy dark, inappropriate humour (and Seth Rogan), this bizarre film might just be the one for you.
(Photo Credit: Comic Book Movie)