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Babette's Feast Customer Reviews (34 - 36 of 40 Reviews)

A singular GEM of a movie. The best.
"Babette's Feast" is one of those rare, delicate films that appeals across a broad spectrum of beliefs and expectations. It matters not whether you are liberal or conservative, spiritual or secular: There is nothing not to like about this movie. If you (1) believe that good, well-prepared food can be spiritually-uplifting, and (2) you enjoyed the recent Lasse Halstrom film "Chocolat," then you should purchase "Babette's Feast" ASAP.

Stephane Audran plays Babette Hersant, a refugee from civil war-torn France who finds sanctuary in the home of two elderly sisters living in a small village on the barren Jutland coast in Denmark. The religious community the sisters belong to is one in which denial of Earthly pleasure is key to one's spiritual redemption; yet unbeknownst to them, Babette was a gourmet chef of considerable renown back in France. Later, in gratitude to the villagers for their kindness, Babette offers to prepare them a French gourmet dinner; and although the villagers reluctantly agree to this extravagance, the soon realize that they may be opening themselves up to temptations of an almost diabolical nature. So before dinner is served, they agree amongst themselves to eat the meal without necessarily ENJOYING it. The ensuing scene at the dinner table, in which the guests are so obviously enjoying the meal yet unable to say so, is delightful.

I'm especially pleased with this DVD transfer. The last time I saw this film was by way of an old VHS copy, and while the story was imminently enjoyable, the picture was scratchy and washed-out compared this new release; this new transfer is fresh and rich-looking. For people who don't care for subtitles, there is the option of watching this film dubbed in English, but I wouldn't recommend it, because the actress used for Babette's voice speaks in a higher pitch and makes the woman sound like something of a French sex kitten.

Wonderfully Original
The story unfolds in a small, seaside Danish village. We watch patiently as the minister and his two lovely daughters lead their church and community through enlightenment and devout prayer. Rather than seeking marriage or fame, the sisters' faith and devotion to God keep them in this picturesque little hamlet well into late age, long after the minister's passing. At the request of a dear friend, the sisters are urged to take in a Parisian refuge in an effort to save her life during her government's turmoil. Babette becomes cook and housekeeper for the ladies.

Many years later, Babette learns she's won the Paris lottery and decides to host a feast for the kindly sisters and the community that took her in. Though slow moving at first, the story gradually picks up momentum, interest and laughs along the way. The highlight is in the preparation and presentation of the feast itself; to the simple people of the village who have never before experienced such an exotic fare. Unbeknownst to everyone, Babette was the head chef at one of Paris' foremost restaurants and a personal favorite of Parisian royalty and dignitaries.

A delightful film and a treasure for any international collector. The characters are realistically wonderful and cast beautifully. While filled with many charming moments and excellent performances, the entire film is an absolute delight and highly suitable for family viewing. Although some parents may be hesitant to introduce a foreign language film (with subtitles) to their children, it has been my personal experience that children can embrace the important elements, plot and humor of this film, irrespective of individual reading proficiencies. This film was purchased at the urging of our children and says a lot for the uniqueness and originality of Babette's Feast. A true delight for all.

Religion NOT required
Many of the other reviews here of BABETTE'S FEAST comment on its Christian content and powerful spiritual message. To potential viewers who might be put off for that very reason: DON'T BE! RENT OR BUY IT NOW! I am a confirmed, lifelong atheist who normally avoids anything even vaguely religious other than the great art it has inspired. And I've seen BABETTE'S FEAST at least a dozen times! I plan to watch it several times a year until the day I die.

I won't say too much, as other reviewers have spoken in detail about this unforgettable masterpiece. BABETTE'S FEAST is simply the most touching, moving and delicately nuanced film I know of, and the one Scandinavian film which I unhesitatingly urge upon all my acquaintances. With none of Bergman's icy pessimism, this movie is a triumph of the human spirit and of the spirit of selfless love. It is utterly beautiful from beginning to end. It is one of the very greatest of all movies.

If you haven't seen BABETTE'S FEAST yet, you are not a fully realized human being.

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