The Taste of Things (2023)

In “The Taste of Things” (2024), director Anh Hung Tran weaves a delicate film exploring love, social class, and the bittersweet passage of time. Set in late 19th century France, the story centers on Eugénie, a skilled and dedicated cook, and Dodin, a refined gourmand with whom she has shared both kitchen and life for two decades. Their tranquil existence as equals takes a subtle shift when Claire, a younger and more glamorous woman, enters their circle. As Dodin becomes increasingly captivated by Claire and her sophisticated tastes, a silent tension simmers beneath the surface of their seemingly perfect culinary partnership.

Eugénie, far from being a passive observer, grapples with this changing dynamic. Her meticulous creations on the plate become a silent commentary on their unspoken emotions. Through these meticulously crafted meals, she expresses both her love and subtle defiance, prompting viewers to delve into the societal expectations and constraints that limit women of her time. 

The film transcends a mere love triangle, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of desire, aging, and the evolving roles of men and women within the rigid social structure of the era. Instead of relying on melodramatic flourishes, “The Taste of Things” captures the nuances of unspoken emotions and shifting power dynamics with quiet intensity, leaving audiences to ponder the lingering flavors of love, loss, and social change.