The Taste of Things 2023

On a captivating country estate in France during the year 1889, we are introduced to Eugénie who is prominently employed as a skilled cook for Dodin Bouffant, a man of culinary distinction who revels in the magnificence of her creations. As they embark on preparing a lavish and intricate meal for Dodin’s affluent friends, they are accompanied by Violette, Eugénie’s assistant, and Violette’s young niece, Pauline, who is joyously spending the day with them. This delightful gathering is a regular occurrence where the guests come together not only to feast but also to admire Eugénie’s culinary artistry. Their admiration sharply contrasts with their discontent regarding a ridiculously lengthy eight-hour meal prepared by a visiting chef associated with a prince, which serves as a rather confusing addition to their otherwise harmonious dining experiences.

The relationship between Eugénie, portrayed by Juliette Binoche, and Dodin, brought to life by Benoît Magimel, blossoms warmly, as both individuals, though middle-aged, have nurtured a long-term romantic bond. However, rather amusingly, they keep their separate bedrooms despite his persistent marriage proposals, which she politely declines, preferring to cherish the blissful status quo they have created. Their days are filled with creativity as they experiment with new recipes, enjoying the art of cooking together. In a moment of inspiration, Eugénie suggests to Pauline’s parents that their talented daughter should train as a cook under her guidance, yet her suggestion meets resistance.

As plans unfold, Dodin considers preparing a special dinner for the prince, revolving around the classical yet humble dish, pot-au-feu. However, a shadow looms over Eugénie as she begins to suffer from mysterious fainting spells, leaving Dodin increasingly concerned about her health. His friend, Rabaz, a doctor, is unable to uncover the reasons behind her ailments, despite Eugénie’s unwavering claims of being fine. In a heartwarming effort to demonstrate his love, Dodin prepares an elaborate meal for her, culminated with a secret engagement ring concealed within a delectable dessert. At long last, she agrees to join him in matrimony, as they look toward a hopeful future in the “autumn of their lives.”

Yet, just as their dreams seem to be taking flight, tragedy strikes; one fateful morning, Dodin awakes to find Eugénie has passed away peacefully in her sleep. Devastated by her sudden departure, he enters a state of deep mourning, refusing to partake in food, the very essence of their shared joys. Pauline’s parents come bearing news that their daughter, also grieving, is eager to learn cooking from him, but he finds himself unable to face the loss. When his friends attempt to coax him back to life by sending a cook who prepares an omelette reminiscent of Eugénie’s signature dish, he angrily dismisses the offer, unable to find solace in the familiar flavors.

As time progresses, he recognizes the need to hire cooks for the prince’s event, with the ever-enthusiastic Pauline providing her assistance. After a series of unsuccessful hires, an unexpected opportunity arises when a friend presents him with a dish created by a remarkable cook nearby. Brimming with excitement, Dodin, along with his friend and the eager Pauline, sets out to meet this culinary talent. In a reflective moment, fragments of their past unfurl; Eugénie and Dodin engage in a poignant conversation about the complexities of their relationship, where she playfully questions if she is merely his cook or destined to be something greater—a sentiment he confirms, much to her delight. This poignant tapestry of love, loss, and culinary delight reveals the intricate flavors of life that Dodin must navigate in the wake of Eugénie’s cherished memory.