the hundred foot journey movie analysis

Movie Reviews

Tv/streaming, collections, great movies, chaz's journal, contributors, the hundred-foot journey.

Now streaming on:

“The Hundred-Foot Journey” is a film that demands that you take it seriously. With its feel-good themes of multicultural understanding, it is about Something Important. It even comes with the stamp of approval from titanic tastemakers Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg , who both serve as producers. What more convincing could you possibly need?

There’s something familiar about the treacly and sanctimonious way this film is being packaged. It reeks of late-‘90s/early ‘00s Miramax fare: films with tasteful yet ubiquitous ad campaigns and unabashed Oscar aspirations which suggested that seeing them (and, more importantly, voting for them) would make you a better person. Films like “The Cider House Rules,” “Chocolat” and “The Shipping News.” Films by Swedish director Lasse Hallstrom.

Hallstrom just happens to be the director here, as well, and the similarities to “Chocolat” are inescapable. Stop me if think you’ve heard this one before: A family moves into a quaint but closed-minded French village and shakes things up with an enticing array of culinary delicacies. This new enterprise happens to sit across the street from a conservative and revered building that’s a town treasure. But the food in question isn’t a bon bon this time—rather, the movie is the bon bon itself.

But despite being handsomely crafted, well acted and even sufficiently enjoyable, “The Hundred-Foot Journey” is also conventional and predictable. And for a film that’s all about opening up your senses and sampling spicy, exotic tastes, this comic drama is entirely too safe and even a little bland.

What livens things up, though, is the interplay between Helen Mirren and Om Puri as battling restaurant owners operating across the street from each other—100 feet away from each other, to be exact, a short but fraught trip that various characters take for various reasons. Watching these veteran actors stoop to sabotage each other provides a consistent source of laughs. She’s all sharp angles, piercing looks and biting quips; he’s all round joviality, boisterous blasts and warmhearted optimism. The contrast between the British Oscar-winner and the Indian acting legend offers the only tension in this otherwise soft and gooey dish—that is, until the film goes all soft and gooey, too.

Mirren stars as Madame Mallory, owner of Le Saule Pleurer (The Weeping Willow), an elegant and expensive French restaurant that’s the winner of a prestigious Michelin star. But one star isn’t enough for the coldly driven Mme. Mallory—she wants another, and then another.

But her bloodless quest for gourmet grandeur is interrupted by the arrival across the street of an Indian family: the Kadams, who’ve been wandering around Europe ever since their beloved restaurant back home burned down during political rioting. When the brakes on their car malfunction on a treacherous stretch of spectacular countryside, Papa (Puri) insists it’s a sign from his late wife and decides to open a new eatery in the charming town at the bottom of the hill.

Never mind that one of the most celebrated restaurants in all of France is sitting right across the street from the empty building he rents. Never mind that they are in an insular part of the country where the residents probably don’t even know what Indian cuisine is, much less like it, as his children point out. He has faith in his food—and in his son, Hassan ( Manish Dayal ), a brilliant, young chef.

Just as Papa and Mme. Mallory strike up a sparky rivalry, Hassan enjoys a flirtatious relationship with French sous chef Marguerite ( Charlotte Le Bon , who played an early model and muse in the recent “Yves Saint Laurent” biopic). The script from Steven Wright (who also wrote the far trickier “ Locke ” from earlier this year, as well as “ Dirty Pretty Things ” and “ Eastern Promises ”) is full of such tidy parallels, as well as trite and overly simplistic proclamations about how food inspires memories. Dayal and Le Bon do look lovely together, though, and share a light, enjoyable chemistry.

Then again, it all looks lovely—both the French and Indian dishes as well as the lush, rolling surroundings, which we see through all four seasons; the work of cinematographer Linus Sandgren , who recently shot “American Hustle.” This sweetly pleasing combination of ingredients would have been perfectly suitable if the film didn’t take a wild and needless detour in the third act. That’s when it becomes an even less interesting movie than it already was, in spite of its loftier aspirations.

Christy Lemire

Christy Lemire is a longtime film critic who has written for RogerEbert.com since 2013. Before that, she was the film critic for The Associated Press for nearly 15 years and co-hosted the public television series "Ebert Presents At the Movies" opposite Ignatiy Vishnevetsky, with Roger Ebert serving as managing editor. Read her answers to our Movie Love Questionnaire here .

Now playing

Challengers

Matt zoller seitz.

The First Omen

Tomris laffly.

Dusk for a Hitman

Robert daniels.

Monica Castillo

Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead

Peyton robinson.

Stress Positions

Peter sobczynski, film credits.

The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014)

122 minutes

Helen Mirren as Madam Mallory

Om Puri as Papa

Manish Dayal as Hassan Haji

Charlotte Le Bon as Marguerite

Amit Shah as Mansur

• Lasse Hallström
• Steven Knight
• Richard C. Morais

Latest blog posts

Speed Kills: On the 25th Anniversary of Go

Joanna Arnow Made Her BDSM Comedy for You

The Movies That Underwent Major Changes After Their Festival Premiere

Netflix's Dead Boy Detectives Is A Spinoff Stuck In Limbo

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

Movie Reviews

Movie review: 'the hundred-foot journey'.

Kenneth Turan

Films that mix food and romance have become a staple of recent movie-making. The Hundred-Foot Journey, starring Helen Mirren , is the latest example.

DAVID GREENE, HOST:

Food and romance. That's the recipe in the new film "The Hundred-Foot Journey." Here's Kenneth Turan's review.

KENNETH TURAN: "The Hundred-Foot Journey" is a sweet and unapologetic fairy tale for adults. Its story of cuisines and cultures and conflict has been polished to the highest possible sheen. Journey stars canny veterans Helen Mirren and Om Puri, who play competing restaurateurs named Madame Mallory and Papa Kadam. Their establishments create such mouth-watering dishes, that seeing this film on an empty stomach is not recommended. Tragedy causes the Kadam family to relocate from India to France. They end up in a tiny town where Madame Mallory, proud proprietor of a restaurant with a Michelin star, cracks the whip at her staff.

(SOUNDBITE OF FILM, "HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY")

HELEN MIRREN: (As Madame Mallory) In this restaurant, the cuisine is not an old, tired marriage. It is a passionate affair of the heart.

TURAN: Despite the intimidating presence of Madame Mallory, Papa Kadam opens an Indian restaurant just 100 feet from her door. Then the focus shifts to Hassan, Papa Kadam's oldest son and an individual with exceptional culinary gifts. Soon enough his father and Madame Mallory are fighting about Hassan's future and the merits of their respective national cuisines.

(SOUNDBITE OF FILM, "HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY)

OM PURI: (As Papa Kadam) You seduce his mind with your awful, tasteless, empty sauces - with your pitiful little squashed bits of garlic.

MIRREN: (As Madame Mallory) That is called subtlety of flavor.

PURI: (As Papa Kadam) It's called meanness of spirit. If you have a spice, use it. Don't sprinkle it, spoon it in.

TURAN: It would be foolish to pretend the result of all these labors is not effective entertainment. But enjoyable as "Hundered-Foot Journey" can be, it's still possible to wish that its gloss was not quite so shiny, that everything about it was not so exactly on the nose, to wish that the film had more of the messy juices of life flowing through its veins.

GREENE: Kenneth Turan reviews movies for MORNING EDITION and also for the Los Angeles Times. You're listening to MORNING EDITION from NPR News.

Copyright © 2014 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use and permissions pages at www.npr.org for further information.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

Film Review: ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’

Lasse Hallstrom returns to 'Chocolat' territory with this overlong serving of cinematic comfort food.

By Justin Chang

Justin Chang

• Film Review: ‘A Hologram for the King’ 8 years ago
• Cannes: A Look at the Official Selection, by the Numbers 8 years ago
• Film Review: ‘Captain America: Civil War’ 8 years ago

Beef bourguignon or tandoori goat? Career success or family loyalty? You can actually have it all, according to “ The Hundred-Foot Journey ,” a culture-clash dramedy that presents itself as the most soothing brand of cinematic comfort food. As such, this genteel, overlong adaptation of Richard C. Morais’ 2010 novel about two rival restaurants operating in a sleepy French village is not without its pleasures — a high-energy score by A.R. Rahman, exquisite gastro-porn shot by Linus Sandgren, the winningly barbed chemistry of Helen Mirren and Om Puri — all prepared to exacting middlebrow specifications and ensured to go down as tastily and tastefully as possible. With the formidable backing of Steven Spielberg and Oprah Winfrey (who produced with Juliet Blake), the DreamWorks concoction should cater to a broad array of arthouse appetites, particularly among those viewers who embraced the similar East-meets-West fusion cuisine of “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.”

If this Old World foodie fairy tale feels like an odd fit for screenwriter Steven Knight — best known for his gritty London underworld thrillers, and coming off an unusually adventurous directing debut with “Locke” — it’s worth recalling that his scripts for the much edgier “Eastern Promises” and “Dirty Pretty Things” were directly concerned with the hostilities bred in and around specific immigrant communities. Still, with its cozy, crowd-pleasing temperament, the new film represents all-too-familiar territory for director Lasse Hallstrom, whose superficially similar “Chocolat” offered up a smug little parable about the triumph of sensual indulgence and liberal tolerance over stifling small-town conformity. The culture war examined in “The Hundred-Foot Journey” is a bit less one-sided: It contrasts the heat and intensity of Indian cooking with the elegance and refinement of French haute cuisine, then balances the two with a feel-good lesson in ethnic harmony.

Popular on Variety

Fleeing a tragic uprising in their native Mumbai for a more idyllic life in Europe, the Kadam family, led by their proudly outspoken Papa (Puri), decide to open an Indian restaurant in the South of France. Alas, they soon find that they have merely abandoned one war zone for another, as their scrappy new Maison Mumbai, with its open-air seating and free-wandering chickens, is soon locked in a fierce competition with the classy Michelin-starred establishment located just 100 feet across the road. That restaurant, Le Saule Pleureur, is run by the widowed Madame Mallory (Mirren), an unyielding perfectionist and proud defender of Gallic tradition whose first glimpse of her brown-skinned neighbors prompts her to sniff, “Who are zees people?”

Zees people, little does she realize, include one of the most talented young cooks in Europe. That would be our protagonist, Hassan Kadam (Manish Dayal), who soon begins a sly flirtation with Le Saule Pleureur’s beautiful sous chef, Marguerite (Charlotte Le Bon); she in turn introduces him to the venerable tradition of French cooking, which he becomes determined to master. The tension between these two characters, sexual as well as professional, is something the film keeps on a low simmer behind the more fiery confrontations between Papa and Madame Mallory, neither of whom is afraid to resort to all manner of competitive sabotage — whether it means sneakily buying up all the crayfish at the farmers market, or filing complaints with the mayor (Michel Blanc), humorously depicted as something of a gourmand himself.

Amid all this fun but childish oneupsmanship, Knight and Hallstrom gently milk all the expected stereotypes for humor and conflict: The French are snobs with their hoity-toity manners and expensive food, and they’re deeply affronted by the thrifty, tacky Indians with their colorful clothes and loud music. France’s ugly history of racial aggression and unrest, particularly relevant at the present moment, briefly punctures the film’s placid surface when local thugs attack and nearly burn down Maison Mumbai. But rather than lighting a fuse, this trauma is what begins to unite the Kadams and Madame Mallory, who soon realizes that Hassan is not only an exceptional cook, especially when armed with his family’s prized spice box, but possibly the missing ingredient that could earn Le Saule Pleureur its second Michelin star.

And so “The Hundred-Foot Journey” becomes a story in which cultural opposites not only learn to coexist, but are in fact triumphantly and even romantically reconciled. It may be set in France, but really, it could be taking place in any movie-manufactured fantasyland where enemies become the best of friends, and an embittered old shrew turns out to have a heart of gold (and, as Papa appreciatively notes, looks rather fetching beneath the glow of computer-generated Bastille Day fireworks). Morais’ novel was described by the New York Times’ Ligaya Mishan as a hybrid of “Slumdog Millionaire” and “Ratatouille,” and Hallstrom seems to have taken that Hollywood formulation to heart: Like “Slumdog,” the film is an underdog story set to the infectious backbeat of Rahman’s music (fun fact: Knight created the original British version of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire”), and like “Ratatouille,” it brings us into an irresistible world of culinary sophistication and features gorgeous nighttime views of Paris, where Hassan eventually arrives in search of his destiny.

Where the film really overreaches is its attempt to reproduce “Ratatouille’s” glorious Proustian moment, that perfect bite of food that induces a heartbreaking recollection of childhood. This wannabe epiphany arrives deep into a draggy third act, during which the script and the handsome Dayal struggle to give Hassan some semblance of a conflicted inner life, but the character, much like his meteoric rise to the top ranks of international chefdom, remains something of a sketch. It’s the older, top-billed leads who manage the heavy lifting: Though she’s encumbered somewhat by her French accent, Mirren is superb at both projecting an air of hauteur and expressing the vulnerability beneath it, and she brings out a similar mix of pride and feeling in Puri’s Papa, an excellent sparring partner whose stubbornness and drive to succeed never come at the expense of his love for his family.

Shot on 35mm in luminous, sun-dappled tones in the French village of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val (with some second-unit work in India), and handsomely appointed by production designer David Gropman and costume designer Pierre-Yves Gayraud, the film is also distinguished by its mouth-watering visual buffet, whether lingering on vats of steaming red curry or a perfectly plated pigeon with truffles. This is, no question, an easy picture to succumb to — perhaps too easy, if its tidy narrative symmetries and its belief in the socially redemptive power of pleasure are any indication. Scrumptious as it all is, it hurts to watch chefs so committed to excellence in a movie so content to settle for attractive mediocrity.

Reviewed at Disney Studios, Burbank, Calif., July 23, 2014. (In Locarno Film Festival — Piazza Grande.) MPAA Rating: PG. Running time: 122 MIN.

• Production: A Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures release of a DreamWorks Pictures and Reliance Entertainment presentation in association with Participant Media and Image Nation of an Amblin Entertainment/Harpo Films production. Produced by Steven Spielberg, Oprah Winfrey, Juliet Blake. Executive producers, Caroline Hewitt, Carla Gardini, Jeff Skoll, Jonathan King. Co-producers, Holly Bario, Raphael Benoliel.
• Crew: Directed by Lasse Hallstrom. Screenplay, Steven Knight, based on the novel by Richard C. Morais. Camera (color, widescreen, 35mm), Linus Sandgren; editor, Andrew Mondshein; music, A.R. Rahman; music supervisor, E. Gedney Webb; production designer, David Gropman; supervising art directors, Karen Schulz Gropman, Alain Guffroy; set decorator, Sabine Delouvrier; costume designer, Pierre-Yves Gayraud; sound (Datasat/Dolby Digital), Jean-Marie Blondel; supervising sound editor, Michael Kirchberger; sound designers, Dave Paterson, Kirchberger; re-recording mixers, Michael Barry, Paterson; special effects supervisor, Philippe Hubin; special effects coordinator, Jean-Christophe Magnaud; visual effects supervisor, Brendan Taylor; visual effects producer, Mitchell Ferm; visual effects, Mavericks VFX, Mr. X, Lola VFX; stunt coordinator, Dominique Fouassier; assistant director, Mishka Cheyko; second unit camera, Hugues Espinasse; casting, Lucy Bevan.
• With: Helen Mirren, Om Puri, Manish Dayal, Charlotte Le Bon, Amit Shah, Farzana Dua Elahe, Dillon Mitra, Aria Pandya, Michel Blanc. (English, French, Hindi dialogue)

More From Our Brands

White house correspondents’ dinner snubs slain journalists in gaza, inside a $3.3 million one-bedroom condo in l.a.’s famed sierra towers, vince mcmahon lists final tko shares for sale, be tough on dirt but gentle on your body with the best soaps for sensitive skin, fire country: did luke’s bombshell blow up [spoiler]’s future michael trucco teases what’s ahead, verify it's you, please log in.

Log in or sign up for Rotten Tomatoes

Trouble logging in?

By continuing, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from the Fandango Media Brands .

By creating an account, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from Rotten Tomatoes and to receive email from the Fandango Media Brands .

By creating an account, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from Rotten Tomatoes.

Email not verified

Let's keep in touch.

Sign up for the Rotten Tomatoes newsletter to get weekly updates on:

• Upcoming Movies and TV shows
• Trivia & Rotten Tomatoes Podcast
• Media News + More

By clicking "Sign Me Up," you are agreeing to receive occasional emails and communications from Fandango Media (Fandango, Vudu, and Rotten Tomatoes) and consenting to Fandango's Privacy Policy and Terms and Policies . Please allow 10 business days for your account to reflect your preferences.

OK, got it!

Movies / TV

No results found.

• What's the Tomatometer®?
• Login/signup

Movies in theaters

• Opening this week
• Top box office
• Coming soon to theaters
• Certified fresh movies

Movies at home

• Fandango at Home
• Netflix streaming
• Prime Video
• Most popular streaming movies
• What to Watch New

Certified fresh picks

• Challengers Link to Challengers
• I Saw the TV Glow Link to I Saw the TV Glow
• Música Link to Música

New TV Tonight

• The Veil: Season 1
• Hacks: Season 3
• The Tattooist of Auschwitz: Season 1
• A Man in Full: Season 1
• Acapulco: Season 3
• Welcome to Wrexham: Season 3
• John Mulaney Presents: Everybody's in LA: Season 1
• Star Wars: Tales of the Empire: Season 1
• My Next Guest Needs No Introduction With David Letterman: Season 4.2
• Shardlake: Season 1

Most Popular TV on RT

• Baby Reindeer: Season 1
• Fallout: Season 1
• Shōgun: Season 1
• Dead Boy Detectives: Season 1
• Velma: Season 2
• Them: Season 2
• Ripley: Season 1
• Under the Bridge: Season 1
• 3 Body Problem: Season 1
• We Were the Lucky Ones: Season 1
• Best TV Shows
• Most Popular TV
• TV & Streaming News

Certified fresh pick

• Dead Boy Detectives: Season 1 Link to Dead Boy Detectives: Season 1
• All-Time Lists
• Binge Guide
• Comics on TV
• Five Favorite Films
• Video Interviews
• Weekend Box Office
• Weekly Ketchup
• What to Watch

All Zendaya Movies Ranked by Tomatometer

Video Game TV Shows Ranked by Tomatometer

What to Watch: In Theaters and On Streaming

Awards Tour

The Most Anticipated Movies of 2024

Poll: Most Anticipated Movies of May 2024

• Trending on RT
• Marvel Movies In Order
• Seen on Screen
• Most Anticipated Movies of May
• Play Movie Trivia

The Hundred-Foot Journey

Where to watch.

Rent The Hundred-Foot Journey on Prime Video, Apple TV, or buy it on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV.

What to Know

Director Lasse Hallström does lovely work and Helen Mirren is always worth watching, but The Hundred-Foot Journey travels predictable ground already covered by countless feel-good dramedies.

Audience Reviews

Cast & crew.

Lasse Hallström

Helen Mirren

Madame Mallory

Manish Dayal

Hassan Kadam

Charlotte Le Bon

More Like This

Movie news & guides, this movie is featured in the following articles., critics reviews.

• Cast & crew
• User reviews

The Hundred-Foot Journey

The Kadam family leaves India for France where they open a restaurant directly across the road from Madame Mallory's Michelin-starred eatery. The Kadam family leaves India for France where they open a restaurant directly across the road from Madame Mallory's Michelin-starred eatery. The Kadam family leaves India for France where they open a restaurant directly across the road from Madame Mallory's Michelin-starred eatery.

• Lasse Hallström
• Steven Knight
• Richard C. Morais
• Helen Mirren
• Manish Dayal
• 266 User reviews
• 185 Critic reviews
• 55 Metascore
• 2 wins & 4 nominations

• Madame Mallory

• Jean-Pierre

• Mayor's Wife

• Swedish Chef
• Baleine Grise Porter

• Hassan (7 years old)
• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

More like this

Did you know

• Trivia Om Puri (Papa) was called "Papa" by the cast. He also moved out of the hotel they all stayed in so that he would have a place to cook for them.
• Goofs When Hassan is first making the 5 main French sauces, he is is mixing egg yolks in a bowl and adding oil and something that looks like mustard. He is making mayonnaise, not one of the sauces. Hollandaise, the one sauce out of the five made with yolks, is made in a bowl over steaming water and adding clarified butter.

Madame Mallory : What is this flavor that is fighting against the chicken ?

Hassan : I added some spices for flavor to the sauce, and coriander for garnish and freshness.

Madame Mallory : But why change a recipe that is 200 years old ?

Hassan : Because, madam, maybe 200 years is long enough.

• Connections Featured in The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon: Helen Mirren/James Cameron/Spoon (2014)
• Soundtracks Afreen Music by A.R. Rahman Lyrics by Gulzar Performed by Nakash Aziz , A.R. Rahman and the KM Sufi Ensemble

User reviews 266

• Aug 9, 2014
• How long is The Hundred-Foot Journey? Powered by Alexa
• August 8, 2014 (United States)
• United States
• United Arab Emirates
• Hành Trình Trăm Bước
• Castelnau-de-Lévis, Tarn, France (Lumière, Restaurants)
• Amblin Entertainment
• Dreamworks Pictures
• Harpo Films
• See more company credits at IMDbPro
• $22,000,000 (estimated)
• $54,240,821
• $10,979,290
• Aug 10, 2014
• $89,514,502

Technical specs

• Runtime 2 hours 2 minutes
• Dolby Digital

Related news

Contribute to this page.

• See more gaps
• Learn more about contributing

More to explore

Recently viewed

THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY

By: debbie lynn elias

To paraphrase screenwriter Steven Knight, “Food is memories”.  Since the days of a feeble Oliver Twist innocently saying “Please sir, I want some more” to Scarlet O’Hara infamously avowing “I’ll never go hungry again” to Charlie Bucket and Willy Wonka to Ratatouille to the Food Network and all its esculent edibles of every type imaginable, we have had a love affair with food.  Within just the past year, food and the culinary arts have become front and center on the big screen with films like Jon Favreau’s “Chef” or “Haute Cuisine” and “Le Chef”.  Is it world turmoil and economic upsets and the need for hearth and home and warm memories of the family gathered around the kitchen table at night sharing a meal that drives us to crave comestible comfort, even if vicariously on screen?  Who knows.  But whatever the reason, food and family are touchstones for us all.  When director Lasse Hallstrom last seduced both the foodie and romantic within us, it was with the sensory intoxications of “Chocolat”.  Now, with THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY, he delivers a rich savory blend of cinematic sugar and spice guaranteed to satisfy the hungriest cinephile! With a pinch of humor and a dash of romance blended to perfection, Hallstrom uses a light touch when whisking his cinematic ingredients together for one of the most delectable delights of the year.

Victims of racist violence that destroys their livelihood and their life in their home of Mumbai, the Kadam family up and moves for a more idyllic and pastoral life in the south of France.  Intent on resurrecting their business and bringing Indian cuisine to this uncharted territory of Michelin stars and haute cuisine, Papa and his brood, led by the culinary talents of eldest son Hassan, find an old stone manse that will serve their purposes nicely for the familial ambience they seek.  With scent of aromatic filling and Indian music infusing the casual open air design of the new Maison Mumbai, what can possibly go wrong, what’s not love.  Madame Mallory, that’s what.

Holder of a Michelin star, and desperate to earn its second, Le Saule Pleureur is the life’s blood of the OCDC perfectionist Madame Mallory who has maintained the traditions of elegance and fine dining started by her now deceased husband.  Unfortunately, Le Saule Pleureur is located just 100-feet across the gravel covered street from Maison Mumbai, something to which Madame and her staff do not take kindly; after all, what kind of restaurant has chickens and children wandering free.  Maison Mumbai must go.

It doesn’t take long before the battle of the kitchen wars takes hold with Madame Mallory and Papa butting heads at every turn, often to comedic result. But while the two of them duke it out everywhere from sidewalk cafes to the local farmers’ market to city hall, Hassan and Madame’s sous-chef Marguerite are exploring the culinary wonders of the region and their two cultures, with Marguerite tacitly instructing Hassan in the art of French cooking.  While the sexual and professional tension between the two simmers to a low boil, it’s obvious that the real fire is between Madame and Papa.

But what happens when the flames of competition erupt into flames of hatred with the Kadams once again on the receiving end of violence and Hassan’s dreams of becoming a world class chef seemingly dashed.

As Madame Mallory, Helen Mirren is as regal as ever. Describing the film as a “a joy to do. . . [b]e in that part of France, making a movie about food.. . .with three such delightful co-stars as I had – Charlotte [Le Bon] and Manish [Dayal] and Om [Puri]”, it’s Mirren and the equally legendary and talented Puri who do the heavy emotional lifting.  Admitting that being able to employ a French accent and speak French which is self-admittedly “quite good”, Mirren is both luminous and chameleonic as the hauteur Madame.  Of the philosophy that costume is as important a foundation to a character as foundational garments, Mirren was “quite proactive” in the look of Madame Mallory.  “It’s of paramount importance, really, how you look and what you wear; that it tells the right story. . . That said, we had a brilliant costume designer who is actually a wonderful French guy, Pierre-Yves Gayraud.”  Transforming Mirren into what she describes as a “chic French woman”, notable is the incremental change to hair, make-up and wardrobe mirroring the emotional growth of the story as Madame goes from rigid and stoic to a welcoming softness.  Hair is looser, bouncy, and not as severe, eye shadow is added to make up, clothes go from rigid dark-colored suits to print silk dresses with scarves and Indian-infused pashimas metaphorically acting as an onion with layers being peeled away.  As Hallstrom notes, “Costume design was actually very clever and subtle.”

Furthering Mirren’s performance is her own pre-production preparation into the persona and ambience of a fine restaurant.  Amazed “to see the extent to which chefs and restaurant owners are absolutely obsessed with food. . .but in this wonderful generous way; they’re not obsessed with food for themselves.  They’re obsessed with giving someone the most incredible experience”, Mirren spent a day in a local Beverly Hills restaurant observing.  Arriving at 9 am “when really the action in the kitchen of a restaurant starts happening”, Mirren became a fly on the wall.  “I just stood quiet in the corner and watched everything going on.  That was absolutely fascinating!  Extraordinary.  Sort of like a wonderful ballet of people moving around each other, small space, everyone knowing exactly where everything is, where they should be at any one time.  The beauty of the workings, like a beautifully oiled machine.  Quiet.  Absolutely silent.  Maybe a little bit of talking, but not raucous, no one shouting. . .Fascinating!”

Joining Mirren as the elder statesman in THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY is Om Puri.  Matching Mirren skewer for skewer, creme puff for creme puff, the two sizzle and sparkle like a perfectly grilled steak and finest glass of champagne.  Crediting Puri as turning the cast and crew into “one big family”, according to Mirren, who Puri is in real life isn’t too different than Papa.  “He loves to make feasts.  He’s a big family man and he just makes everyone around him into his family.  He has that quality that he has on-screen, in real life, of just being this guy who loves life, loves, food loves women, loves family; that kind of a guy.  So, he’s just a complete delight to be around.”   For producer Juliet Blake, Puri was her first choice for Papa.  “I wanted to go for somebody who had the best acting chops rather than somebody who had a particular look. . .Om is somebody who has worked in Pakistan as an actor as well as in India.  For me, it was sort of the cross-culturalness of that that made [Mirren and Puri] interesting to play opposite each other.”   The result is a performance that is both commanding and tender.

As Hassan and Marguerite, Manish Dayal and Charlotte Le Bon bring a fresh youthful vibrancy to the menu, something for which Hallstrom is most appreciative. “[T]here’s a lot of wonderful life, if I may say myself, especially between the young kids Manish and Charlotte, who were also interested in trying to forget that there was a camera there and really be honest and listen to each other.”  They succeed in their efforts and fill the performances with natural organic facial responsiveness and reflex.  To prepare for their roles, each had to go through some intensive culinary training in order to not only capture that ballet precision Mirren noticed in her kitchen observations, but for preparation and handling of food.  Style and technique were essential for each to capture the expertise necessary to imbue the film with authenticity.  However, scripted authenticity only went so far with Dayal who dazzled with his own culinary skills in a key omelet making scene.  Playing to Hallstrom’s belief in freedom to ad-lib and infuse personality into a role, according to producer Blake,  the omelet that Hassan makes is actually “[Dayal’s] father’s recipe and he insisted on the buttermilk.  That was the omelet.  And when he was saying to Madame Mallory, ‘Put some more in’ and she gives that look like ‘I don’t know’ – that is exactly how his family make omelets.”

Written by Steven Knight (the genius behind this year’s sleeper hit “Locke”) and adapted from the novel of the same name by Richard C. Morais, THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY is more about capturing the flavor of the book and the cross-culture pollination of France and India than its specific details; and that’s more than okay as it allows director Lasse Hallstrom to bring a delicate airy lightness to the film.  Capitalizing on stereotypical cliches about the two cultures – the snobbish rude French, the garish loud music loving colorful Indians, the love of food and cooking – the cliches are also treated with a light touch adding fuel for fun and funny and setting the stage for rich performances from the film’s cast.  The conceptual ideals of “a journey” are elicited on so many levels – romance, self-discovery, professional growth, cultural growth.  Life is a journey.  It may as well be a tasty one.

Subtextually, THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY is a blueprint for cultural co-existence, celebrating the underdog who gets by with a little help from his friends – and sometimes enemies –  making food the true melting pot for the world.  Inner conflict runs deepest within the character of Hassan and his journey.  Unfortunately, that conflict never quite feels that conflicted or fully fleshed out; be it due to script or performance, I’m still not certain.

Known for his practice of letting the camera run and giving actors the opportunity to deliver variations of the scripted performance, not to mention his patented “One for Fun” final scene shots, Hallstrom recalled that “with Om’s presence there and Helen’s skill offering 10-15 varied options on each take, she’s so smart and inventive, all that created an atmosphere like a feeler for me of an Indian family.”  The result gave Hallstrom and editor Andrew Mondshein “tons of footage” to cull through in cutting the final film, and I must say, there’s not a visual mis-step in the film.

Linus Sandgren’s cinematography is nothing short of delicate beauty, allowing the flavor of story and performance to bubble to the top of the production.  Be they the panoramic vistas of the region, a saturated inky starlit night, the pale elegant classicism of Madame’s restaurant or the vibrant color filled richness of the local market, every image is just one more tasty morsel of enjoyment.  The light in the film has a “light” touch to it; bright, yet soft, and just lacing the lightness of the film as a whole.  Shooting on 35mm, widescreen lensing captures the bucolic pastoral beauty of the green trees and grassy land that surround both restaurants which, ironically are actually located 650 miles apart.  A facade representing Le Saule Pleureur was erected across the drive from the Maison Mumbai for lensing the repeated 100-foot journeys between the two restaurants while exteriors of La Saule Pleureur such as the party scene were lensed at the second storybook country location.  Aerial wide shots celebrate the metaphor of short distances bridging worlds and cultures.

It was actually Sandgren who convinced Hallstrom to shoot THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY on film.  Calling Sandgren “my favorite DP now”, Hallstrom feels the two “connected so well, almost a magical instinctual connection, the same way of thinking” leading to visuals and tone that have a lightness to them, with visual texture that is metaphoric for the emotional texture.   As Hallstrom notes, “there is a much more subtlety in film. . .a film camera observes color much more in detail and much more subtle than a digi-camera can do.”  Be it capturing the misty quality of the air at sunrise, the bucolic natural colors of the greens and the blues and that French sky or the sparkle of a fish splashing in the river, the result is luminous.

A production element present here not typically required on set are the culinary consultants – both for principal filming and for reshoots. As vegan Hallstrom laughs, “We had an Indian specialist and French specialist chef.  And some of the food that was made, there was too much attention to taste than to the actual look!” which led to the talents of Floyd Cardoz who “was important because he was on the re-shoot when we did additional shooting.  We had to re-shoot some of the closeups of the food.. .For us it was more important to look right rather than taste right!”

A surprising subtlety of the film is its score.  I say surprising as the composer is A.R. Rahman who typically has a heavier hand than we hear with THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY.  Composing a score with a great symphonic classicism that’s infused with the Bollywood sensibility for which he’s more well known, the result is beauteous.  Working collaboratively, Hallstrom describes the scoring process. “We went through all the cues and said, ‘Now, here’s a French one, here’s an Indian one, here’s one where they collide, here’s one where they fuse, here’s a classical French symphonic version with an Indian flavor to it.’  We had all kinds of labels like that.  I got to work with him in his studio while he recorded it.  That was fun!  I could be immediately be there to say this or that, more of that.  He improvises a lot like I do.  He does his music recording kind of similar to my way of working with film – last second impulses.”

No last second impulse needed here.  Fulfilling, rich and delicious, THE HUNDRED-FOOT JOURNEY is an effervescent delight, sizzling with cinematic and emotional flavor.

Directed by Lasse Hallstrom Written by Steven Knight based on the novel by Richard Morais Cast: Helen Mirren, Om Puri, Manish Dayal, Charlotte Le Bon

Site Development: SoCal Web Content

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

UK Edition Change

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Betting Sites
• Online Casinos
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

The Hundred-Foot Journey, film review: Fiery performances from Helen Mirren and Om Puri in culinary culture-clash comedy

(pg) lasse hallström, 122 mins starring: helen mirren, om puri, charlotte le bon, manish dayal, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey

Get our the life cinematic email for free, thanks for signing up to the the life cinematic email.

The Hundred-Foot Journey is a culinary culture-clash comedy enlivened by fiery performances from Helen Mirren and Om Puri but which, like so many other Lasse Hallström films, slowly turns to gloop the longer it lasts.

Puri is as funny here as he was in East Is East and My Son the Fanatic. He plays the patriarch of an Indian family which has moved to Europe after their restaurant in Mumbai is destroyed in a riot. His wife has died in the fire. The family first set up home in West London but quickly decide that the "vegetables have no soul".

When their rickety old van breaks down in an idyllic village in the south of France, Papa (Puri) decides this is a sign that the family should open an Indian restaurant there. The hitch is that their premises are bang opposite the Michelin-starred restaurant run by the imperious Madame Mallory (Mirren).

It is a pleasure to watch two such accomplished scene-stealers as Mirren and Puri vying with each other on screen. After a while, we even get used to Mirren's 'Allo 'Allo-style French accent.

Papa's son Hassan (Manish Dayal) is a genius in the kitchen who eventually masters French cuisine and falls in love with the beautiful French chef Marguerite (Charlotte Le Bon).

Hallström shoots the movie in his usual picture-postcard fashion, throwing in shots of gorgeous French landscapes and plenty of fetishistic close- ups of the food. The charm of the early scenes is undermined by the mushiness and predictability with which the rest of the film unfolds.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre

The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014) Film Review – A Beautiful Exploration of Culture, Family and Food

The hundred-foot journey summary.

After the devastating losses of their family restaurant and their matriarch, the Kadam family leave India and head for Europe. They wander in search of a place where they can settle as well as open a new restaurant. Papa Kadam notices a property for sale in the small French village of Saint-Antonin. However, there are many reasons why it is not a good investment. One of which is due to the successful Michelin star rated restaurant only one hundred feet across the road. His family names other reasons to be deterred; no one in the French village will be interested in Indian food, the previous owners were not able to run a restaurant there successfully, among others. But Papa’s conversations with his deceased wife and his confidence in his son Hassan’s skills as a cook override all other concerns.

Hassan is excited to put to use the skills his mother taught him in the kitchen. He has also befriended a local girl named Marguerite. She works for the formidable Madame Mallory in the restaurant across the road. Hassan realizes that in order for his family business to succeed they must all adapt to the culture and the food. Marguerite is helpful to him in this regard. But Madame Mallory does everything she can to make it difficult for their business to succeed. She lodges complaints with the town mayor about minor infractions and purchases up all the ingredients they need before they can get to the market.

When a bigoted man attacks the Kadam restaurant, Hassan is injured, and the war between Papa Kadam and Madame Mallory comes to a head, with a surprising resolution. Suddenly, enemies reluctantly make peace. This changes the course of several lives, not the least of which is Hassan’s.

A DIRECTOR’S HOMAGE

There is a reason The Hundred-Foot Journey is one of my favorite movies. It is sweet, thoughtful, real and warm. It addresses issues like prejudice, nationalism, ambition and love in a realistic way without becoming “preachy” about it. This seems to be a hallmark quality of several films I’ve seen by Swedish director Lasse Hallström.

One of the things I appreciate about Hallström’s films is his ability to show not tell. He addresses divisive topics thoughtfully, allowing the viewer a window into both sides of an argument between flawed but still likable characters. He gives his characters time to think and to grow organically in their beliefs, instead of forcing them to be reactionary. Hallström doesn’t have a long or even commercially succesful list of films to his credit. But what he does have is better, films like Chocolat, Cider House Rules, Hatchi: A Dog’s Tale and Salmon Fishing in the Yemen.  These are all unique stories which should pass the test of time more than blockbuster films by other directors.

PERSONAL JOURNEYS

Helen Mirren may be the only actress in The Hundred-Foot Journey whom American audiences may recognize. But she fills her role as the rigid, proud French woman Madame Mallory as if she was born French. Her precise and tight body language and facial expressions show a haughty woman whose only love is her beloved restaurant. But Mirren allows the pain and loneliness of Madame Mallory to seep through the tiny cracks in her facade so that the audience can empathize with her. As she allows herself to open up, she finds her world expanding instead of contracting as she fears.  Her personal growth as a character is perhaps the most profound in the film.

RELATED: Lion (2016) Review: An Emotionally Taxing Yet Vibrant Story of Love and Family

Besides the titled journey between two cultures, is the journey taken by the Kadam family. Om Puri portrays Papa Kadam as a strong, stubborn, but loving father figure for the family. He is determined to honor his late wife in his decisions. The relationship between him and his son Hassan is tenderly portrayed as each of them navigate their old world traditions, within their new country. There is a push and pull between them as Hassan urges Papa to adapt to French culture, but it is always respectful.

Then there is the issue to navigate of Hassan’s dream of being a true chef. Papa knows that his dream and his skill far exceeds their humble family restaurant. He struggles with allowing Hassan to grow beyond what the family can give him.

Both the cultural and Hassan’s personal journey to become a respected chef are further exemplified in his relationship with Madame Mallory’s sous chef, Marguerite. Their relationship begins tentatively as friends, with Marguerite more cautious due to her position with Madame Mallory. Though she shows no prejudice towards Hassan, she struggles with professional jealousy. Their romance grows very slowly, but sweetly. Hassan’s feelings are more evident, while Marguerite’s French reserve keep both the audience and Hassan guessing. Manish Dayal and Charlotte LeBon do a marvelous job with their respective characters. LeBon has such delicate features which bely her inner strength. And I couldn’t help but fall a little in love with Dayal’s Hassan, who is thoughtful, caring, forgiving and a bit of dreamer who knows how to work towards his goal.

The Hundred-Foot Journey is a beautiful film of family, love and cultural differences and acceptance, with its’ messages enhanced by the gorgeous cinematography. As it focuses on feeding the bellies of its’ characters, it surreptitiously feeds the soul of the viewer. If you have ever dreamed of an idyllic life in a little French village, then this is the film for you. From sunny days fishing and picking mushrooms, to bike riding around the village, to children playing in the square, it hits the mark on what many American envision about the French lifestyle. Between the beauty of the story and that of the setting, it really brings to mind that poetic line of John Keats, “a thing of beauty is a joy forever.”

Where to Watch: The DVD is available for purchase at a very reasonable price. Or you can rent/buy from the streaming sites, GooglePlay and iTunes.

Content Note: This film has a PG rating and is safe for the whole family.

Photo Credit: DreamWorks Pictures

OVERALL RATING

“The stuff that dreams are made of.”

ROMANCE RATING

“In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My

feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me

to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.”

ARE YOU A ROMANCE FAN? FOLLOW THE SILVER PETTICOAT REVIEW:

Brittaney has had her head in the clouds ever since she first fell in love with books and film as a young child. She's a firm believer in the power of story to transport us to new places while also transforming our hearts. She tends to favor historical fiction and classic films since they also allow her to feel like a time traveler. Brittaney is a native resident of Texas and has been honing her own ability to write and tell stories for many years now. You can find more of her wordsmith skills at her website www.storyenthusiast.com.

More posts by this author.

2 thoughts on “The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014) Film Review – A Beautiful Exploration of Culture, Family and Food”

I really enjoyed this movie.

Isn’t it good? It just kind of leaves you with a warm glow and appreciation for life.

Comments are closed.

• TV & radio
• Art & design

The Hundred-Foot Journey

The hundred-foot journey review – food wars in the south of france, helen mirren on the hundred-foot journey: 'the american public will not accept subtitles' – video, the hundred-foot journey review – curry-joint drama dishes up the cliches, box office analysis: uk apes swing past inbetweeners to grab top spot at the uk's summer box office, box office analysis: us guardians of the galaxy can't save us box office from a soggy summer, the hundred-foot journey: cute foodie movie leaves a sour taste.

Box office analysis: US Guardians of the Galaxy rule the roost as Hollywood looks to summer 2015

An abject showing from Sin City 2 helped Marvel regain top spot at the US box office, but studios can banish the seasonal blues with thoughts of next year, writes Jeremy Kay

Box office analysis: US TMNT turtalises Guardians of the Galaxy at the US box office

First look review The Hundred-Foot Journey first look review – romance on the menu

• Helen Mirren
• Guardians of the Galaxy
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
• Film industry

• Movies based on books
• TV Shows based on books
• Who’s Who

The ultimate guide to: The Hundred-Foot Journey

Welcome, fellow bibliophiles and cinephiles! Today we’ll be taking a deep dive into the rich tapestry of ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’, a compelling story that spans cultures and continents, beautifully woven together in the form of a book and a movie.

As we embark on this journey, we’ll delve into the brilliant mind of Richard C. Morais , the author who brought this tale to life, and later explore how the story was gloriously transported onto the big screen.

Before we unravel the intricate details of the narrative, let’s first set the stage.

‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ is a poignant tale of cultural clashes, culinary wars, and ultimately, the power of unity and love.

It’s a narrative that has touched many hearts, and through this exploration, we hope to deepen our appreciation of this masterpiece.

Richard C. Morais: Author biography and notable works

Richard C. Morais, the man behind this gem, is an acclaimed author with a prolific career.

Born in Portugal , Morais spent most of his life in Switzerland and later moved to the United States .

He started his writing career as a journalist and gradually transitioned towards fiction.

His rich experiences and exposure to various cultures are reflected in his narratives, making them vibrant and relatable.

‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ is undoubtedly one of his most notable works. However, Morais’ literary prowess isn’t confined to this masterpiece alone.

His other works such as ‘Buddhaland Brooklyn’ and ‘The Man With No Borders’ also showcase his ability to weave complex characters and plotlines into captivating stories.

Book Summary: An exploration of ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’

‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ is an intricate story that explores the life of Hassan Haji, a young boy born in Mumbai, India , with a remarkable culinary talent.

The narrative follows Hassan’s journey from India to Lumière, a quaint village in the French Alps, where his family opens an Indian restaurant, much to the chagrin of Madame Mallory, the owner of a revered French restaurant across the street.

The story is a cocktail of rich cultural experiences, sprinkled with a dash of rivalry and stirred with the common love for food.

It’s about the power of resilience, the beauty of cultural amalgamation, and the magic of a shared meal.

The book is a feast for the senses, taking readers on a roller coaster ride of emotions and flavors.

Movie Analysis: ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ on the Big Screen

In 2014, ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ was adapted into a movie, directed by Lasse Hallström, with a screenplay by Steven Knight.

The film, starring Helen Mirren and Manish Dayal, brought the magic of Morais’ narrative alive on the big screen.

The movie beautifully captures the essence of the book, providing a visual treat that complements the rich narrative of Morais’ story.

From the vibrant streets of Mumbai to the pristine beauty of the French Alps, the film transports its viewers into the heart of the story.

The performances are exemplary, and the direction captures the essence and nuances of the narrative seamlessly.

The movie, much like the book, is a tribute to the power of food and culture, and their ability to unite and heal.

‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ Parent Guide

‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ is a wonderful tale that can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages.

However, parents might want to be aware of a few things before sharing this journey with their children.

The movie does contain some mild language and a few scenes depicting cultural clashes and conflicts that might need some explaining for younger audiences.

Despite these minor elements, the overarching themes of the narrative are positive and enriching. ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ is a story about acceptance, unity, and the power of dreams.

It’s a tale that encourages viewers to embrace diversity and teaches the importance of resilience and perseverance.

When and Where ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ Takes Place

‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ is a narrative that unfolds over many years and across several locations.

The story starts in Mumbai, India, in the late 1980s. The first few chapters transport readers to the bustling streets of Mumbai, painting a vivid picture of Hassan’s early life and the roots of his culinary passion.

From Mumbai, the narrative takes us to London , where the Haji family experiences a brief stint before finally settling in the picturesque village of Lumière in the French Alps.

The majority of the narrative unfolds here, against the backdrop of the culinary feud between the Hajis and Madame Mallory.

Exploring the film locations of ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’

The film adaptation of ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ beautifully captures the varied locations of the narrative.

The movie was primarily filmed in the South of France , in the department of Lot, Midi-Pyrénées.

The charming village of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val was used to portray the fictional town of Lumière.

The movie also features scenes shot in India, specifically in Mumbai, and in England . The varied locations add a rich texture to the film, enhancing the cultural clash and integration that are central themes of the narrative.

Who’s Who in ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’

‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ is populated with a diverse cast of characters, each bringing a unique flavor to the narrative.

The protagonist, Hassan Haji , played by Manish Dayal in the movie, is a young Indian with a profound culinary talent.

His father, Papa , portrayed by Om Puri, is a resilient man with a dream to establish his restaurant in France.

Across the street is the stern yet passionate Madame Mallory , expertly brought to life by Helen Mirren.

She owns a renowned French restaurant and is initially appalled by the idea of an Indian eatery disrupting the tranquility of her village.

The narrative also introduces us to Marguerite , played by Charlotte Le Bon, a sous-chef in Mallory’s restaurant and Hassan’s love interest.

Memorable Quotes from ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’

‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ is filled with memorable lines that resonate with the reader long after the book is closed or the movie ends.

Here are a few of the gems:

• “Food is memories.” – Hassan Haji
• “Maybe your tongue is like an orchestra conductor. Right? It is thinking, ‘A little more oboe here, a little more cello there.'” – Madame Mallory to Hassan
• “The best compliments are the ones you can’t explain.” – Papa

These quotes encapsulate the essence of ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ – a story of memories, culinary passion, and the unspoken language of food.

Soundtrack by A.R. Rahman: A Musical Journey

The movie version of ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ is complemented by a beautiful soundtrack composed by A.R. Rahman, the Academy Award-winning music maestro from India.

Rahman’s music is a perfect blend of Eastern and Western influences, mirroring the cultural amalgamation at the heart of the narrative.

From soulful melodies like “The Hundred Foot Journey” to foot-tapping numbers like “Afreen,” the soundtrack is a musical journey in itself, enhancing the cinematic experience and resonating with the narrative’s emotional beats.

Curiosities and interesting facts about ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’

Did you know that the idea for ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ came to Morais when he was eating in an Indian restaurant in France? Or that Steven Spielberg and Oprah Winfrey, both huge fans of the book, served as producers for the film adaptation? These are just some of the fascinating tidbits about ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey.’

Another fun fact is that the actor Manish Dayal, who played Hassan, underwent intensive culinary training to convincingly portray a chef on screen. Now that’s dedication!

Tips for cosplay: How to dress like the characters

If you’re a fan of ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ and love cosplay, dressing up like your favorite characters can be a fun experience.

For Hassan , think traditional Indian attire like kurta-pajamas, and for his scenes in France, a chef’s uniform.

For Madame Mallory , elegant dresses in pastel shades paired with a stylish bob hairstyle would do the trick.

And for Marguerite , casual chic outfits complemented with a warm smile would perfectly capture her charm.

‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ ending explained

‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ concludes on a heartwarming note, symbolizing the power of unity and acceptance.

After a series of trials and tribulations, Hassan becomes a celebrated chef in Paris .

However, he realizes that his true happiness lies in Lumière, with his family and his love, Marguerite.

The story ends with Hassan returning to Lumière, reuniting with Marguerite, and taking over the reins of Madame Mallory’s restaurant, thus completing his hundred-foot journey.

The ending is a testament to the narrative’s core message – that home isn’t a place, but a feeling, and that the journey is as important as the destination.

Possibilities of a remake, sequel, and spin-off

While there hasn’t been any official announcement about a remake, sequel, or spin-off of ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’, the rich narrative and well-loved characters certainly provide ample scope for further exploration.

A sequel could delve into Hassan’s life after he takes over Madame Mallory’s restaurant, or a spin-off could explore the backstories of other characters.

Other media by Lasse Hallström

Lasse Hallström, the director of ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’, is a renowned filmmaker known for his heartwarming narratives.

Some of his notable works include ‘Chocolat’, another food-centric tale that explores the power of culinary delights, and ‘The Cider House Rules’, a touching story of love, loss, and life lessons.

Similar media to ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’

If you enjoyed ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’, you might also like ‘Julie and Julia’, a delightful movie that intertwines the lives of Julia Child and a modern-day woman inspired by her recipes.

Another recommendation is ‘The Lunchbox’, a heartwarming Indian film about a mistaken lunchbox delivery that sparks an unusual friendship.

Other notable works by Richard C. Morais

Besides ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’, Richard C. Morais has penned other compelling narratives.

‘Buddhaland Brooklyn’ is a touching tale of a Japanese monk who is sent to Brooklyn to establish a temple, and ‘The Man With No Borders’ explores the life of a wealthy banker grappling with his past and mortality.

‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ Book Club Questions

Looking to discuss ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ with your book club? Here are a few questions to get the conversation started:

• How does the theme of cultural clash and integration play out in the narrative?
• How does food serve as a metaphor in the story?
• How do the characters evolve throughout the journey?

Video games inspired by ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’

While there aren’t any video games directly inspired by ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’, food and cooking-based games like ‘Overcooked’ and ‘Cooking Mama’ capture the frenetic energy and creativity of a kitchen, reminiscent of the culinary adventures in the story.

Travel guide to visit ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ locations

If you’re a fan of ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ and love to travel, visiting the locations where the story unfolds can be a thrilling experience.

Start with Mumbai, the city of dreams, where Hassan’s journey begins. From there, head to the charming village of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val in France, where the majority of the film was shot.

While you’re there, indulge in the local cuisine, soak in the culture, and who knows, you might just find yourself on your own hundred-foot journey!

‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ is a story that resonates with readers and viewers alike, thanks to its rich narrative, compelling characters, and the heartwarming journey it presents.

As we conclude our exploration, we hope you’ve gained a deeper appreciation for this masterpiece.

Whether you’re a book lover, a movie buff, or a culinary enthusiast, ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ has something for everyone.

So, embark on this journey, and let the power of food, culture, and unity touch your heart.

Share this:

The magic of translation: the hunchback of notre dame (1996), from page to screen: the hunger games: mockingjay – part 2, jane thomper.

Hi there! I'm Jane Thomper, and I'm thrilled to be your go-to movie expert. With a genuine passion for all things film-related, I've dedicated my life to exploring the captivating world of cinema. From an early age, movies held a special place in my heart. The way they transported me to different worlds, evoked emotions, and sparked my imagination left an indelible mark. It was no surprise that I decided to pursue a degree in Film Studies, where I deepened my understanding of the art and craft of filmmaking. Throughout my academic journey, I delved into the rich history of cinema, analyzing groundbreaking films and studying the techniques used by master storytellers. From silent classics to contemporary blockbusters, I've explored a vast array of genres and styles, developing a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for the nuances that make each film unique. But my expertise extends beyond the theoretical. I've also immersed myself in the practical side of the industry, gaining hands-on experience in various aspects of movie production. This firsthand knowledge has given me a comprehensive perspective on the collaborative efforts required to bring a vision to life on the silver screen. Now, as a seasoned movie critic and writer, I'm thrilled to share my insights and recommendations with you. Whether you're seeking thought-provoking analysis, in-depth reviews, or expert recommendations, I'm here to provide you with engaging and informative content that will enrich your movie-watching experience. So, join me on this cinematic journey as we explore the captivating world of film together. Let's dive into the magic of storytelling, unravel hidden gems, and celebrate the power of movies to entertain, educate, and inspire.

Related Posts

• Dressing Like a Legend from ‘Dances with Wolves (1990)’

• Overview of ‘Cujo (1983)’ Aesthetic

• Sartorial Splendor on the Silver Screen: ‘Cry Macho (2021)’

A Chic ‘Cruel Intentions (1999)’ Style Guide and Overview of its Aesthetic

Dressing the Dragon of ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’

From page to screen: The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2

Leave a reply cancel reply, recent posts.

The Magic of Translation: Odette Toulemonde

From Bookshelf to Theater: Odds Against Tomorrow

From Words to Frames: the Magic of Octonauts

When Words Come Alive: the Success of October Sky

From Oblivion to movie: A comprehensive analysis of both works

Browse by category.

• Who's Who

Browse by Tags

"WFTS - Waiting for the Sequel" is an exciting new blog that dives deep into the world of movies and TV series adapted from books. We explore the creative process of bringing beloved literary works to life on screen, analyze the key elements that make these adaptations successful, and eagerly await the sequels that keep us on the edge of our seats.

Browse by tag

Recent posts.

© 2023 Wating for the sequel

Discover more from Waiting for the sequel

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading

• Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Summary Hassan Kadam (Manish Dayal) is a culinary ingénue. Displaced from their native India, the Kadam family, led by Papa (Om Puri), settles in the quaint village of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val in the south of France. Filled with charm, it is both picturesque and elegant – the ideal place to settle down and open an Indian restaurant, the Maison M ... Read More

Directed By : Lasse Hallström

Written By : Steven Knight, Richard C. Morais

The Hundred-Foot Journey

Where to watch.

Helen Mirren

Madame mallory.

Manish Dayal

Charlotte Le Bon

Farzana Dua Elahe

Dillon mitra, aria pandya.

Michel Blanc

Clément Sibony

Jean-pierre.

Vincent Elbaz

Juhi Chawla

Alban aumard, shuna lemoine, mayor's wife, antoine blanquefort, malcolm granath, swedish chef, abhijit buddhisagar, baleine grise porter, rohan chand, hassan (7 years old), masood akhtar, arthur mazet, critic reviews.

• All Reviews
• Positive Reviews
• Mixed Reviews
• Negative Reviews

User Reviews

Related movies.

Singin' in the Rain

City Lights

The Rules of the Game

Some Like It Hot

Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb

American Graffiti

The Shop Around the Corner

A Hard Day's Night

The Philadelphia Story

Ratatouille

The Lady Eve

Do Not Expect Too Much From the End of the World

La Dolce Vita

Meet Me in St. Louis

The Apartment

Chimes at Midnight

Related news.

2024 Movie Release Calendar

Jason dietz.

Find release dates for every movie coming to theaters, VOD, and streaming throughout 2024 and beyond, updated weekly.

Every Zack Snyder Movie, Ranked

With the arrival of Zack Snyder's latest Rebel Moon chapter on Netflix, we rank every one of the director's films—from bad to, well, less bad—by Metascore.

Every Guy Ritchie Movie, Ranked

We rank every one of the British director's movies by Metascore, from his debut Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels to his brand new film, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare.

April Movie Preview (2024)

Keith kimbell.

The month ahead will bring new films from Alex Garland, Luca Guadagnino, Dev Patel, and more. To help you plan your moviegoing options, our editors have selected the most notable films releasing in April 2024, listed in alphabetical order.

DVD/Blu-ray Releases: New & Upcoming

Find a list of new movie and TV releases on DVD and Blu-ray (updated weekly) as well as a calendar of upcoming releases on home video.

Clash of culinary cultures in ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’

The 100 feet in “The Hundred-Foot Journey” — a fairy tale-like film that examines cultural differences through food — is the physical distance between an Indian restaurant opened by new immigrants in a tiny town in the south of France and a well-established Michelin-starred dining room across the street. The distance initially seems insurmountable.

All films that center on food elicit strong reactions from people in the food industry, so we brought together a French chef, French-born university lecturer, anthropologists, a francophile, and Indian-Americans to watch and share their thoughts: Jacky Robert, chef and co-owner of the Petit Robert Bistro restaurants; Thierry Gustave, French lecturer at University of Massachusetts Boston; Merry White, professor of anthropology at Boston University; Gus Rancatore, owner of Toscanini’s Ice Cream in Cambridge; Tulasi Srinivas, associate professor of anthropology at Emerson College; and artist Rani Sarin.

The group agreed that the film was less about food and more about family, connections, identity, and memories. And though sometimes clichéd and unrealistic, with food scenes that were not quite right (such as a spice box that miraculously makes it through customs from India to England, then through Europe, with the jars still full of spices that are apparently “fresh”), the film left these viewers with a good feeling. “The movie was cheesy,” says White. “But it was the kind of cheese that works: melts in your mouth and not too smelly.”

“I was attracted to the concept of food bringing people together,” director Lasse Hallstrom says on the phone from the West Coast. “The Hundred-Foot Journey,” produced by Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg, among others, and based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Richard C. Morais, does succeed in that concept, the group agreed. “Food in this movie initially divides, then brings people together,” says Srinivas.

Advertisement

The film portrays the clash when the head of the Kadam family, Papa (Om Puri), opens Maison Mumbai across from the fancy Le Saule Pleureur (literally “the weeping willow”), owned by Madame Mallory (Helen Mirren) in the idyllic French village of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val.

In an opening scene, Mummy, Papa’s wife, is racing after a food vendor in a bustling Mumbai market, her young son, Hassan (later played by Manish Dayal), in tow. The shot captures the chaos and color of India but Srinivas saw something that would never happen. “No Indian woman will run around like that, arms flailing. They will hold themselves in, gliding through spaces.”

Son Hassan shows an extraordinary talent for cooking at a young age. His culinary school is the family restaurant, his teacher is Mummy. The sense of destiny and spirituality fundamental to India are obvious throughout the film, particularly in a scene where Mummy tells Hassan, “When you cook you make ghosts,” by which she means memories.

When Mummy perishes in a fire during postelection rioting, the Kadam family comes unhinged. Papa and the five children (ages about 10 to mid-20s) leave India and wander through England and Europe, searching for a place to open a restaurant, finally settling, accidentally, in Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val. “They are looking to connect through memories,” Gustave says. “Memories of food.”

The one food throughout the film that seems to remind Hassan of India is sea urchin, an ingredient in a seafood soup that Mummy cooked while explaining, “To cook you must kill.” In fact, the sea urchin is rarely used in Indian cooking, Sarin says, and in a country where vegetarianism prevails, most people would dispute the cook-and-kill statement.

Before they decide where to land, Papa’s car brakes fail near Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val and Marguerite (Charlotte Le Bon), Madame Mallory's sous chef, rescues the family and brings them to her house. Marguerite offers them food — tomatoes, cheeses, cold cuts — and the Kadams are beguiled by the lushness and flavors. Papa remarks, “I think my family is afraid they have died and gone to heaven.”

“That was a great scene,” White says. “The family at first was a bit shy about accepting food, then really enjoyed it, reaching all at once with their hands. Very natural and the food was simple and beautiful, even without ‘beauty shots.’ ”

White adds she thought it was curious that there was pork roast, considering that the Indian family is Muslim, and that they all tasted some.

One of director Hallstrom's main concerns was avoiding commercial-like food shots and he achieved that, said the group. The food scenes are used to set up and resolve clashes between the two establishments. Madame Mallory's initial disparagement of Indian food is obvious when she asks, “A curry is a curry is it not?” But later she embraces Hassan's Indian touches to French classics. When he adds cumin and mustard seeds to boeuf Bourguignon, Madame Mallory touts it as boeuf Bourguignon a la Hassan.

Papa, against his children’s advice, buys a dilapidated building across from Le Saule Pleureur to start an Indian restaurant. His son, Mansur, cautions, “The French don’t know Indian food. They have their own food and it is famous throughout the world.” Chef Robert said the scene made him smile. “The French do have their own food and are conservative about it,” he said.

Madame Mallory considers Maison Mumbai's garish Taj Mahal-like entrance cheap decor, and its loud music distasteful. She tells Papa, “If your food is anything like your music, I suggest you turn it down.”

“I will turn the music down, but I will turn the heat up,” the gruff, outspoken Papa responds, staking out his territory.

Srinivas says the divide here is typical of each culture. “The French kitchen is about stability and hierarchy, whereas the Indian kitchen is about creativity, pitching in, ad-hoc cooking,” she says.

The escalation of the restaurant-war is offset by a blossoming romance between Marguerite and Hassan. Marguerite gives him French cookbooks and shows him how to forage for wild mushrooms. After a series of well-worn plot turns, Hassan even tries to win Madame Mallory over by making her an omelet.

We watch Madame Mallory from the back as she takes her first bite of omelet in the Mumbai kitchen. Her back stiffens, then we see her face softening. Hassan's omelet has Indian aromatics. Madame Mallory is enticed by the mix of sensations, the heat of red chiles, the coolness of cilantro. “If there is a sexual moment in the film, it is this,” Rancatore says. “The range of emotions she displays.”

Chef Robert says that his own chef at Maison Robert asked him to make an omelet when he first went to that kitchen. Making an omelet right is a test of technique, though the chef admits he might not hire someone who makes an omelet Hassan's way, with cream. “You don’t put cream in an omelet,” he says. “That is a shortcut used when someone doesn’t know how to make an omelet.”

Hassan goes on to study French classics under Madame Mallory. The young chef experiments, combining French techniques with Indian flourishes — cumin in boeuf Bourguignon, garam masala in another entree, saffron in a sauce. Madame Mallory asks Hassan why he must change a 200-year-old French recipe. “Because 200 years is long enough,” he replies. While he runs her kitchen, Le Saule Pleureur earns a second Michelin star.

When Hassan moves to Paris to work in a top-rated restaurant, his success is marred by loneliness, this time for the French village and the young woman who taught him about wild mushrooms.

Late one night, he sees the food porter, a South Asian man, eating food the porter’s wife prepared. Hassan is offered a bite and becomes emotional. “Every bite takes you home,” he says.

And that is essentially at the heart of the film. Home, says New Delhi native Sarin, “is where your family is, where your kitchen is.”

Early viewers

Sena Desai Gopal can be reached at [email protected].

• Entertainment

Meals as Metaphors: Two New Movies Provide Food for Thought

I smail Merchant’s name is already a noun: Merchant Ivory films, so-called after the production company he cofounded, are synonymous with lavish period pieces. To those who knew him well, though, there’s a verb he could have inspired, too. The British-Indian movie mogul put his kitchen skills good use as a business strategy, says the author Richard C. Morais, who met Merchant some 30 years ago: feed first, ask questions later. “The actor Simon Callow used to say that the term ‘curry favor’ was invented for Ismail,” Morais recalls.

So it was that Morais learned an important lesson: food isn’t just for eating.

Morais turned that knowledge into his novel The Hundred-Foot Journey , about an upstart Indian restaurant that opens across the street from a Michelin-starred French joint, which he hoped Merchant would adapt for the big screen. Though Merchant died before the book was published, The Hundred-Foot Journey hits theaters on Aug. 8, and it won’t be alone in claiming that a meal can be a metaphor. In Journey , cooking is culture; in the romantic comedy What If , a gigantic sandwich stands in for a relationship — a messy dish for messy love.

Elan Mastai, What If ’s screenwriter, has a theory about why what movie characters eat often means so much — that is, why his blending of peanut butter and jelly and bacon and butter can be more than a heart attack waiting to happen: “These flavors kind of have a built in nostalgia, and it’s also fat and sugar and gluten,” he says. “Put them all together and your body reacts in a very visceral way — and, weirdly, in an emotional way.”

Silver-screen sustenance has a long history — Journey director Lasse Hallström was responsible for one of its high points, Chocolat — but the obsession with the kitchen is getting hotter. Both the French import Le Chef and Jon Favreau’s taco-truck passion project Chef arrived in U.S. theaters this summer, after a winter in which Labor Day linked pie and sex and the acclaimed Bollywood film The Lunchbox gave new meaning to “magic beans” by bringing its haricots of happiness (and lots of other love-provoking midday munchies) to American audiences. And as both The Hundred-Foot Journey and What If show, food movies are rarely about food. The former, despite a plot that revolves around restaurant reviews, is actually about tolerance and tradition; the latter is about young love.

The What If sandwich, a favorite of Elvis Presley’s known as the Fool’s Gold, shows up as a throwaway reference in the play on which the movie is based, but Mastai ramped up its role when he saw that it echoed the movie’s theme: something can be untidy and delicious at the same time. And the extra layer of meaning Morais gave to the food in Journey was what attracted producer Juliet Blake, who ended up shepherding the story to theaters. Blake tells TIME that the story reminded her of her German mother’s making strudel rather than cake even after she emigrated, and she quotes Adam Gopnik’s book The Table Comes First to explain why: “Food,” he writes, “is the sensual pleasure that translates most readily into a social value.”

That’s a lot to ask of cinematic comestibles. Take The Hundred-Foot Journey for example, in which a hint of cardamom can signify the entirety of Indian-ness; it would be unreasonable to expect a meal, however nuanced the taste, to capture the intricacies of something so complicated. Shilpa Davé, author of the book Indian Accents: Brown Voice and Racial Performance in American Television and Film , explains that eating and enjoying food is a good step toward intercultural intimacy, but that consumers sometimes need to be reminded that eating the food doesn’t mean knowing everything about the culture. Anita Mannur, author of Culinary Fictions: Food in South Asian Diasporic Culture , agrees, saying the potential problem of laying all that meaning on eating is simple: the typical post- Monsoon Wedding depiction of Indian people in films for Western audiences — “colorful and bright and with good food” — doesn’t always leave room for the complications of real life. She read the book of The Hundred-Foot Journey and enjoyed that it made the point that food can remind people of how they don’t belong, but it’s still clear that even the most delicious-looking feast can stumble as a metaphor.

“There’s this idea that if we can only just sit down together all the tensions of the world will go away,” Mannur says. “That’s an appealing solution, but it’s unrealistic.”

But in Juliet Blake’s case, at least, the unrealistic has proved attainable. The cast and crew of Hundred-Foot Journey ate well on set — the location catering included foie gras — and the film’s star, Om Puri, who plays the patriarch, will make sure the tradition of sitting down together continues. When he comes to New York for the film’s premiere, Blake plans to host him at her Brooklyn home. She says he’s going to teach her how to make Indian food.

More Must-Reads From TIME

• The 100 Most Influential People of 2024
• Coco Gauff Is Playing for Herself Now
• Scenes From Pro-Palestinian Encampments Across U.S. Universities
• 6 Compliments That Land Every Time
• If You're Dating Right Now , You're Brave: Column
• The AI That Could Heal a Divided Internet
• Fallout Is a Brilliant Model for the Future of Video Game Adaptations
• Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time

Write to Lily Rothman at [email protected]

“The Hundred Foot Journey” Case Study

Introduction, analysis of the hundred-foot journey, purpose of the movie, production house, treatment and style of the movie, narrative structure, intended audience, reaction of viewers.

Marshall McLuhan is an established entity in the philosophy field. The philosopher of Canadian origin dealt with public rational and the concept of communication. The foundation of the media and concept theory generated from his unending research and argument on the importance and significance of the theory in communication (Jandt, 2012). The scholar presented an advanced explanation of the achievements of media theory and the facilitation of the Web worldwide decades before their inventions. This illustrates on the degree of knowledge and academic acquaintance gathered by Marshall McLuhan during his research and analytical period in philosophy.

According to McLuhan, the ‘contact zone’ signified a section or region where different groups with a common goal join to facilitate an understanding, interaction and recognition of information, art, communication, technology and media. This means that the ‘contact zone’ establishment is aimed at distributing dormant information into useful and understandable content to the world. This sharing and facilitation of information transfer is properly achieved through media and other forms of communication fields (McLuhan & Fiore, 1967).

This case study aims at analyzing the concept founded by McLuhan and the significance of his research hypothesis to the current media and communication fraternity. The media theory experienced a lot of controversial sentiments during the reign of McLuhan and years after his death. This resulted from the significance of his observation on the importance of devoted personnel and entities acting as the media to share and distribute gathered information to the different regions of the world. Research indicates that media theory and concept from the philosopher has currently gained recognition due to the establishment of social media (McLuhan & Fiore, 1967). This growth represents assured and reliable source of information for research and local use.

The movie, ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey,’ is based on an American setting and cast. Steven Knight and Lasse Hallstrom act as the screenplay writer and director of the movie respectively. The movie illustrates the operation of two individual restaurants.

One restaurant is owned and operated by an Indian investor while the other is operated by a French native. The hilarious connections between the two operators of the restaurants and their customers produce an amazing masterpiece. The plot of the movie shows how the families of Kadam who are Indians operate their family restaurant in Mumbai. Hassan who is the second son in the family is established as the successor of his mother as the cook in the restaurant. However, the occurrence of burglary in the restaurant results in the death of Hassan’s mother from the attack. This results to their relocation due to political imbalance and insecurity issues in the area.

Kadam and his family migrate to Europe in search of an ideal area to set up their restaurant business. A mechanical default makes them to stop in France on their way to Mainland Europe. Marguerite who is a chef in a French restaurant offers assistance to the Kadam family. The food offered to the guests is poorly cooked and served when cold. Kadam is astonished on the quality of the food and the level of service offered by Marguerite who is allegedly one of the cooks at a local restaurant.

This triggers the urge to find a restaurant in the surround since the competition offered in France on the service and quality of food in the restaurants failed to impress Kadam. Luckily, he finds a restaurant opposite the ‘weeping willow’ which is a local restaurant and names it ‘Maison Mumbai’. The beginning of rivalry between Mallory and Kadam who are the owners of the restaurants begin when Mallory’s chefs spray Kadams restaurant with words which signified that they were not welcomed in the area (Jandt, 2012).

The result of the confrontation between Mallory and Kadam results to the destruction of the restaurant and Hassan gets injured in the process. Jean-Pierre who vandalizes the restaurant is fired and the two agree on Hassan working for Mallory since he prepares her a delicious omelet. The acquisition of Hassan by Mallory’s restaurant earns the restaurant numerous customers and recognition. This leads to the enrollment of Hassan as a chef in a recognized restaurant country wide.

This results to a mutual relationship and understanding between Kadam and Mallory who in the beginning were enemies. The outstanding performance by Hassan in the preparation and serving of meals earns him more recognition in Paris. However, the chef feels lonely because of the distance between him, his family and Marguerite who had already become his lover. Due to the inconveniences of long distance relationship, Hassan decides to return home and ventures into business together with Marguerite.

The production of ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014) movie’ was made to assist in the illustration of the significance of the different cultures and the availability of conflicts based on cultural and racial grounds. From the beginning of the movie, the lack of communication and distribution of information using the ‘contact zone’ aspect fails to be established (Wood, 2011). Kadam and his family depend on luck in the establishment on a new business and fail to gather advanced information in the beginning on availability of greener pastures. From the case study, a conclusion can be drawn that Hassan’s success resulted from the distribution and sharing of information about his prowess in cooking.

This uplifted his salary, social and economic lifestyle since he earned an employment in a recognized restaurant in Paris where he still earned fame and acknowledgement. The screenplay writer and the director of the movie together with their allies made a profound statement on the need to facilitate the media law. The ‘contact zone’ is well established in how it lacks in the beginning of the film and its significant achievements.

The production house consisted of well established crew members like Juliet Blake, Steven Knight, Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg. The directors of the film had a high dedication on their research and made an appropriate base for the film. According to research, food acts as a cultural foundation of different cultures and the sharing of different foods from different areas allows intercultural cohesion and understanding (Pratt, 2011). Different groups with a common goal join to facilitate an understanding, interaction and recognition of information, art, communication, technology and media. This shows that the different cultural aspects shown in the film resulted in a common understanding at the end and cohesion with strong and promising results.

The movie contains exceptional style of production and screenplay writing. In addition, the actors produced an excellent performance. Research indicates that media theory and concept from the philosopher has currently gained recognition due to the establishment of social media.

The movie illustrates the operation of two individual restaurants (Pratt, 2011). One restaurant is owned and operated by an Indian investor while the other is operated by a French native. The hilarious connections between the two operators of the restaurants and their customers produce an amazing masterpiece. From the illustration of the ‘contact zone’, the actors played their roles to indicate on the occurrences witnessed in different parts of the world due to differences in social, political and racial status.

The presentation of the film by its production team to feature ideas to the viewers represents a sufficient narrative structure. The narrative structure of this movie starts from its plot and the themes represented in the entire film. In addition, the resolution of the movie gives clarity to the viewers in information delivery (Pratt, 2011). Research indicates that media theory and concept from the philosopher has currently gained recognition due to the establishment of social media. This growth represents assured and reliable source of information for research and local use.

The film is intended to be watched by the different social classes from all regions. From the basic understanding of the movie, it was meant to affirm McLuhan’s theory on media and contact zone. This acts as a founding revelation of how food can be shared between individuals of different cultures in a mutual understanding (Comninou, 2007).

The different viewers gave different controversial feedbacks after the release of the movie. The French community disregarded the film because of the racial acknowledgement made in the film and due to the discrimination portrayed in the movie. It can be concluded that the audience shared different individual sentiments and acceptance to the movie after its release.

In conclusion, it is clear that that the ‘contact zone’ establishment is aimed at distributing dormant information into useful and understandable content to the world (Comninou, 2007). This sharing and facilitation of information transfer is properly achieved through media and other forms of communication fields.

Comninou, M. (2007). Interface crack with friction in the contact zone. Journal of Applied Mechanics , 44(4), 780-781. Web.

Jandt, F. E. (2012). An introduction to intercultural communication: Identities in a global community . Sage Publications. Web.

McLuhan, M., & Fiore, Q. (1967). The medium is the message. New York , 123, 126-128. Web.

Pratt, M. L. (2011). Arts of the contact zone. Profession , 33-40. Web.

Wood, J. F. (2011). An Introduction to Intercultural Communication: Identities in a Global Community. Journal of Intercultural Communication Research , 40 (2), 173-175. Web.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2024, January 15). "The Hundred Foot Journey". https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-hundred-foot-journey/

"The Hundred Foot Journey." IvyPanda , 15 Jan. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/the-hundred-foot-journey/.

IvyPanda . (2024) '"The Hundred Foot Journey"'. 15 January.

IvyPanda . 2024. "The Hundred Foot Journey." January 15, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-hundred-foot-journey/.

1. IvyPanda . "The Hundred Foot Journey." January 15, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-hundred-foot-journey/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "The Hundred Foot Journey." January 15, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-hundred-foot-journey/.

• Compare and contrast the ideas of Harold Innis and Marshall Mcluhan
• Juxtaposing McLuhan’s Technological Determinism and Social Forces
• Media and Our “Selves”: Discussing McLuhan’s View on Media
• Cinematic Techniques in the Film “Stagecoach”
• Providing Holistic Care to the Family Members: Palliative Care
• Management Accounting: Management Accounting Principle
• Hassan and Amir: The Relations, Which Touch the Soul
• Graphic Violence in Movies
• Maya Angelou: The Biography and Liberating Poetry Style
• Women’s Status and Secondary Position
• “The Barn Burning” by Peter Werner
• Lighting in the "Captain Phillips" Film
• "The Fall" a Film by Tarsem Singh
• Theories in the Film "The Station Agent" by Thomas McCarthy
• Film Studies: "Temple Grandin"

The Hundred-Foot Journey Summary

Hassan Haji is born in West Bombay (the city which is now known as Mumbai). The first things he remembers from childhood? The smells coming from his grandfather's restaurant downstairs. So before he tells us his own story, he gives us the low down on his family history—starting with his grandfather, who kicked off the whole food thing.

Here's how it goes: Hassan's grandfather lives a poor life in Bombay, sleeping in the streets and delivering lunch boxes to workers. He eventually starts making a profit by cooking for American and English soldiers based in the city, and when that goes well, he buys some property and sets up shop by opening an official restaurant.

Papa takes over the business when the time comes and, as it turns out, he's more ambitious than good old grandfather. One example? He moves the location slightly uptown to be closer to the hustle and bustle of wealthy Mumbai. The place does well, but his actions cause tension between the upper and lower classes, and eventually the lower class riots, breaking into Papa's restaurant, destroying the place, and killing Hassan's mother. Yikes.

One thing's for sure: They can't stay in Mumbai. Papa sells the property, the family moves to England to live with relatives, and he tries to start a new business—but fails. The straw that breaks the camel's back is that they find Hassan making out with his cousin. The family has a fall-out and Papa packs them up to travel across Europe, sampling food and searching for a new home.

They settle in a tiny French town in the Alps called Lumière and buy a huge property across from an inn called Le Saule Pleureur. On it, they open the Maison Mumbai, which is the first Indian restaurant in the area.

There's instant trouble afoot in paradise. They immediately encounter the neurotic, competitive and high-and-mighty Madame Gertrude Mallory, who owns the inn across the street. Why does she care? She's disgusted with this invasion from the East that disrupts her elegant vibe across the street. Not to mention the competition. Papa and Mallory sabotage each other many times until one fateful tussle results in Hassan being pushed into a stove by accident.

Mallory sort of comes around, and in recompense, she offers to teach Hassan to become a chef because, by the way, she's discovered that he's got major talent in the kitchen. Papa grudgingly agrees and Hassan moves into Le Saule Pleureur.

Hassan spends a few exhausting years as Mallory's apprentice, learning everything there is to know about a French kitchen. He also has an affair with the lovely and sweet-as-sugar sous chef, Margaret Bonnier—ooh la la—but eventually it's time for him to strike out on his own and leave Lumière. He accepts a position working in a kitchen in Paris, leaves his family and Margaret behind, and heads to the city.

Hassan climbs the French restaurant ladder without too much trouble, which he always kind of secretly suspects is due to Mallory's background help, though she denies it. After working in a couple different places he opens up his own place—which he calls Le Chien Méchant —and impressively earns his first restaurant star in no time flat.

Because of his success, he meets the legendary restaurant and food mogul, Paul Verdun, who hears about Hassan and his work; it's pretty much friendship at first sight. Paul acts as a mentor and pal to Hassan, and they're both totally on the same page when it comes to classical old world cooking methods. See, the old ways are starting to be threatened by trendy new methods that don't value tradition. Ugh—what nonsense.

But then disaster strikes. Within a short period of time Hassan is hit by the death of Papa, Mallory, and Paul Verdun. Talk about feeling alone on the world, right? Hassan struggles to keep up with his own life but seems to have lost the people that kept him going.

Insert period of depression.

Eventually Hassan has a eureka moment and realizes that all the petty details of the world he's a part of is driving him crazy. He gives his restaurant a total makeover, and starting from scratch, he decides to go back to basic ingredients and methods.

This change earns him his third star, thus establishing his continued success in the restaurant world. At this time, Margaret also comes back into his life. Though they aren't officially together when the books ends, we're lead to believe that they have a happily ever after.

Tired of ads?

Cite this source, logging out…, logging out....

You've been inactive for a while, logging you out in a few seconds...

W hy's T his F unny?