Just saw this movie called Vatel, recommended by my French friend. It stars Gerard Depardieu and Uma Thurman. It's based on the true story of a famous chef played by Depardieu who is charged with orchestrating a three-day bacchanalia of festivities in Chantilly in honour of the Sun King and his court in the late 17th century. Witness the unimaginable scramble of activity in the kitchen and elsewhere. You get to appreciate the tremendous pressure on the chef to solve near-catastrophic problems. You see his resourcefulness, skill, creativity, ingeniuty, and passion. The film is a visual cornucopia of gastronomic delights, lavish costumes and sets, amid mind-boggling decadence -- all in the pursuit of the king's pleasure.
(At one point, you'll see how Chantilly sauce/cream was invented.)
If you're interested in cooking, or in French history, or just plain interested in movies, this one is a must-see!
(At one point, you'll see how Chantilly sauce/cream was invented.)
If you're interested in cooking, or in French history, or just plain interested in movies, this one is a must-see!
