The Taste of Things (2023)

Original title: La passion de Dodin Bouffant

Anh Hung Tran’s The Taste of Things is a slow-burning drama that hinges on the relationship between a renowned chef, Dodin (Benoît Magimel), and his talented sous-chef, Eugénie (Juliette Binoche). Their bond, simmering for over two decades, finally bubbles into a quiet romance. But instead of a feast for the senses, the film feels more like an under seasoned amuse-bouche.

Let’s be clear: the cinematography is gorgeous. Long, lingering shots showcase the beauty of the French countryside and the meticulous preparation of exquisite dishes. Food porn enthusiasts will find themselves practically drooling at the close-ups of glistening sauces and perfectly plated creations. The problem is that there’s just not enough substance beneath the surface.

The plot, like the film’s pacing, is agonisingly slow. We spend an eternity watching them cook, garden, and steal shy glances across the kitchen counter. While some may find this meditative, it left me fidgeting. The central conflict—Eugénie’s hesitance to fully commit—feels underdeveloped, and the dialogue, when it appears, is sparse and repetitive. It’s a shame, because Binoche and Magimel are both phenomenal actors, capable of conveying volumes with a mere flicker of expression. Here, they’re simply not given enough to work with.

The film aspires to be a profound exploration of love, passion, and the art of creating something beautiful together. There are hints of this, particularly in a late scene where Dodin attempts to win Eugénie over through his cooking. But these moments are fleeting, lost in a sea of uneventful sequences. The score, a collection of melancholic piano pieces, reinforces the film’s overall muted tone, which some might find soothing, but I found it downright sleepy.

There’s a whiff of Babette’s Feast here, a film that also celebrates the power of food to connect people. However, Babette’s Feast packs an emotional punch that The Taste of Things sorely lacks. 

Ultimately, The Taste of Things is a beautiful but frustrating film. If you’re looking for a slow, meditative experience and appreciate food cinematography, you might find some solace here. But for those craving a story with a bit more bite, this film might leave you feeling hungry for something more.