Movies About Indian Food

From Quentin Tarantino, starring John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Samuel L. Jackson, Bruce Willis
Rated R

"Pulp Fiction" is a 1994 neo-noir crime film directed by Quentin Tarantino. It follows the intersecting storylines of mobsters, criminals, and other colorful characters in Los Angeles as they navigate through the criminal underworld. Voyeuristic cinematography and a twisty, nonlinear narrative structure combine to make the film an instant classic. The main characters include Vincent Vega and Jules Winnfield, two hitmen out to retrieve a valuable briefcase; boxer Butch Coolidge, who is forced to throw a fight; and Marsellus Wallace, a powerful mob boss. All of these characters intersect in a bizarre and violent journey as they make their way through the dark and criminal world of Los Angeles. The film boasts an all-star cast, including John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson, and Christopher Walken. It won the Palme d'Or at the 1994 Cannes Film Festival, and was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

From Park Chan-wook, starring Choi Min-sik, Yoo Ji-tae, Kang Hye-jeong, Kim Byeong-Ok
Rated R

Oldboy is a 2003 South Korean psychological thriller film directed by Park Chan-wook. The film tells the story of Oh Dae-su (Choi Min-sik), an ordinary Korean man who is kidnapped and imprisoned in a private jail for 15 years without explanation. After his release, he embarks on a quest for vengeance and a search for the reasons behind his imprisonment. Along the way, he discovers the horrifying truth behind his imprisonment and the shocking identity of his captor. Oldboy explores themes of revenge, fate, and human vulnerability, and contains several violent fight scenes, leading it to be regarded as a classic example of South Korean cinema.

From Rajkumar Hirani, starring Aamir Khan, Madhavan, Mona Singh, Sharman Joshi
Rated PG-13

3 Idiots is a Bollywood comedy-drama film directed by Rajkumar Hirani and starring Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Kareena Kapoor, and Boman Irani. The film follows three engineering students—Rancho, Raju, and Farhan—as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and friendship. Through various adventures and misadventures, the trio confront various obstacles, including a strict college dean, a tyrannical father, and their own shortcomings. In the end, they learn that success is not measured by grades, but by one's ability to find happiness and fulfillment in life. The film celebrates the importance of pursuing one's dreams, believing in oneself, and following one's heart.

From Billy Wilder, starring Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine, Fred MacMurray, Ray Walston
Rated Approved

The Apartment is a 1960 American romantic comedy-drama film directed and produced by Billy Wilder from a screenplay he co-wrote with I.A.L. Diamond, starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine. The film follows C.C. Baxter, an insurance clerk who allows his supervisors to use his apartment for their extramarital affairs. Baxter soon finds himself in a love triangle with Fran Kubelik, one of his bosses' mistresses, and Jeff Sheldrake, his other boss. The film features a series of humorous and touching moments, as C.C. Baxter learns to stand up for himself and his beliefs and find true love. Along the way, he faces a moral dilemma of how far he'll go to help his bosses and how to keep his integrity intact. The film won five Academy Awards and garnered critical acclaim for its sharp wit, polished dialogue, and complex characters.

From Quentin Tarantino, starring Brad Pitt, Diane Kruger, Eli Roth, Mélanie Laurent
Rated R

Inglourious Basterds is a 2009 war film written and directed by Quentin Tarantino and starring Brad Pitt, Christoph Waltz, and Mélanie Laurent. Set in German-occupied France during World War II, it tells the story of two plots to assassinate Nazi leaders. The first is a team of Jewish-American soldiers led by Lieutenant Aldo Raine (Brad Pitt) who are on a mission to kill as many Nazis as possible, earning them the moniker of "The Basterds". The second is a French-Jewish cinema owner, Shosanna Dreyfus (Mélanie Laurent), who seeks revenge against the Nazis for the death of her family. Both plans collide and intertwine with the help of a young German soldier, Hans Landa (Christoph Waltz), and a mysterious British film buff, Lt. Archie Hicox (Michael Fassbender). Inglourious Basterds is a daring, action-packed, and often humorous story of revenge and retribution that ultimately leads to an explosive climax.

From Sergio Leone, starring Robert De Niro, James Woods, Elizabeth McGovern, Treat Williams
Rated R

Once Upon a Time in America tells the epic story of David "Noodles" Aaronson and his gang of Jewish-American gangsters from the 1920s through the 1960s. Spanning four decades, the film follows Noodles on an emotional, nostalgic journey of love, crime, friendship and betrayal. After a failed robbery in the late 1920s, Noodles is sent to prison and comes out a changed man. He reconnects with his childhood friends and sets out to make a better life, only to be pulled back into a world of crime and violence. As old enemies resurface and old friends depart, Noodles is forced to confront the harsh realities of his past, and ultimately make a difficult decision about his future.

From Harold Ramis, starring Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell, Chris Elliott, Stephen Tobolowsky
Rated PG

Groundhog Day is a 1993 fantasy comedy film directed by Harold Ramis, starring Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell. Murray plays Phil Connors, an arrogant, cynical Pittsburgh TV weatherman covering the annual Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, who finds himself living the same day over and over again. As Phil experiences the same day repeatedly, he begins to develop a newfound appreciation for his life, and eventually discovers the meaning of true love and happiness. Through his repeated cycles of the same day, he learns to become a better person, and discovers the joys of compassion and selflessness.

From Stuart Rosenberg, starring Paul Newman, George Kennedy, Strother Martin, J.D. Cannon
Rated GP

Cool Hand Luke is a 1967 American prison drama starring Paul Newman. It tells the story of Lucas "Luke" Jackson (Paul Newman), a former World War II infantryman who is sentenced to two years in a Florida prison camp. Luke refuses to conform to the regime of the prison wardens, which leads to his being given a series of tough tasks and punishments. Despite this, Luke's unflagging spirit endures, making him a natural leader among the prisoners. As he comes to be respected and admired by his fellow inmates, Luke also gains a reputation as an unbeatable escape artist. His attempts to break out of prison are consistently thwarted by a vigilant prison guard, Captain (Strother Martin). Ultimately, Luke's spirit is broken by the system, and he dies a martyr to his cause. Cool Hand Luke is a classic prison drama, filled with strong performances and memorable moments.

From Rob Reiner, starring Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, Jerry O'Connell
Rated R

Stand By Me is a 1986 coming-of-age drama directed by Rob Reiner and based on the Stephen King novella "The Body". The film follows four 12-year-old boys in a small town in Oregon as they set off on a journey to find the body of a missing boy. Along the way, the boys form a deep friendship as they discover more about themselves and the world around them. As they confront various obstacles, they also confront life’s harsh realities and the meaning of true friendship. The film stars Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, and Jerry O’Connell.

From Directors: Brad Bird, Jan Pinkava, starring Brad Garrett, Lou Romano, Patton Oswalt, Ian Holm
Rated G

Ratatouille is a 2007 Disney/Pixar animated film directed by Brad Bird and Jan Pinkava. The movie follows the story of Remy, a rat with a passion for cooking who dreams of becoming a world-renowned chef. After being separated from his family, Remy finds himself in the Paris restaurant of esteemed chef Auguste Gusteau. Remy soon begins to help the restaurant's staff create food for their customers, all while trying to hide his identity from the terrified humans. With the help of a clumsy, yet lovable garbage boy named Linguini, Remy learns how to master the art of French cuisine. Along the way, he must face and overcome a number of obstacles - from a menacing food critic to his own inner fears and doubts. In the end, Remy's passion for cooking and his determination to be accepted by his peers triumphs, and he and Linguini are able to become a dynamic kitchen duo.

From Tate Taylor, starring Viola Davis, Emma Stone, Octavia Spencer, Bryce Dallas Howard
Rated PG-13

The Help is a 2011 American period drama film directed and written by Tate Taylor, and adapted from Kathryn Stockett's 2009 novel of the same name. Set in Jackson, Mississippi, during the early 1960s, the film tells the story of a young white woman and aspiring journalist, Skeeter Phelan, who decides to write a book from the perspective of the black maids, exposing the racism they are faced with on a daily basis. With the help of her friend, the maid Aibileen Clark, Skeeter sets out to change the town's views on the mistreatment of black domestic workers. Despite facing a hostile reaction from the white social elite, Skeeter and Aibileen continue to write the book, and in doing so, form an unlikely and powerful bond with the other maids that allows them to stand up for themselves, their families, and their community. The Help is a powerful story of friendship and courage, and is ultimately a story of hope and resilience.

From Robert Aldrich, starring Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, Victor Buono, Wesley Addy
Rated Passed

What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? is a 1962 psychological thriller directed by Robert Aldrich. The film stars Bette Davis and Joan Crawford as two aging sisters living together in a decaying Hollywood mansion. Jane Hudson (Bette Davis) is a former child star whose career has been overshadowed by her sister Blanche's (Joan Crawford) success. Now a recluse, Jane condescends and mistreats her paralyzed sister, much to Blanche's horror. As the story unfolds, a shocking secret comes to light that reveals the source of Jane's hatred and provides the audience with a disturbing look at the psychological effects of fame and jealousy.

From Ridley Scott, starring Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig, Kate Mara
Rated PG-13

The Martian is a 2015 science fiction film directed by Ridley Scott, based on Andy Weir's 2011 novel of the same name. It follows astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon) who is presumed dead and left behind on Mars when a fierce dust storm forces his crew to evacuate during a manned mission to the red planet. With only meager supplies, Watney must use his wits and spirit to subsist and find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive. As resources dwindle and time passes, the team on Earth must devise a plan to save him, while Watney struggles to survive in an environment where the impossible seems to be the only option. With his knowledge and wit, Watney perseveres, finding a way to make contact and eventually return to Earth, making him the first human to set foot on Mars.

From Stars: Steve Coogan, Rob Brydon, Claire Keelan, Rebecca Johnson, starring
Rated TV-14

The Trip is a British TV and film series directed by Michael Winterbottom, starring Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon. It follows the two comedians as they travel across the north of England, visiting various restaurants and sites of interest. During the journey, the two engage in witty banter and comedic improvisations. Along the way, they meet various different characters, as well as old friends, and share their unique perspectives on life. The series is a comedic exploration of British culture, food, and friendship.

From Jûzô Itami, starring Ken Watanabe, Tsutomu Yamazaki, Nobuko Miyamoto, Kôji Yakusho
Rated Not Rated

Tampopo is a 1985 Japanese comedy-drama film directed by Jûzô Itami. The film follows the story of Goro, a cowboy-hat-wearing “ramen cowboy,” and his journey to help Tampopo, the widow of a noodle shop owner. With the help of his sidekick Gun, Goro helps Tampopo start her dream of opening the ‘perfect’ noodle shop. Along the way, Tampopo and her friends encounter a variety of characters and situations, leading to comedic and poignant moments. Through its unique blend of offbeat humor and slapstick comedy, Tampopo serves as a celebration of the art of ramen making, as well as a reflection on the importance of food and family.

From John Landis, starring John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Cab Calloway, John Candy
Rated R

The Blues Brothers is a 1980 American comedy directed by John Landis. It stars John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd as "Joliet" Jake and Elwood Blues, respectively, two blues musicians who are trying to save the Catholic orphanage in which they were raised. To do this, they must put their old band back together and earn $5,000 to pay the orphanage's property tax bill. Along the way, they find themselves pursued by the police, neo-Nazis, a country-and-western band, and a mysterious group of flamboyantly dressed women. In the end, with the help of many musical artists from the blues, soul, and R&B genres, they are able to raise the money they need to save the orphanage.

From Ang Lee, starring Sihung Lung, Kuei-Mei Yang, Yu-Wen Wang, Chien-Lien Wu
Rated Not Rated

Eat Drink Man Woman is a 1994 Taiwanese film written and directed by Ang Lee. It follows the story of a retired Taiwan Master Chef, Mr. Chu, and his three grown daughters. As they struggle to maintain their traditional family dynamics in a rapidly changing world, they also must learn to bridge the gap between generations and cultures. The film centers around the preparation of a traditional Sunday dinner by Mr. Chu, and the secrets and struggles of his daughters unfold as the film progresses. Through this, the film explores themes such as the changing of times and the importance of family.

From David Gelb, starring Jiro Ono, Yoshikazu Ono, Masuhiro Yamamoto, Daisuke Nakazama
Rated PG

Jiro Dreams of Sushi is a documentary film that follows the life and work of Jiro Ono, an 85-year-old sushi master, and owner of the Michelin 3-star restaurant Sukiyabashi Jiro. The documentary showcases Jiro's history and his craftmanship as he strives to perfect the art of sushi-making. It also explores the relationship between Jiro and his two sons, Yoshikazu and Takashi, who are both sushi chefs and are expected to take over the restaurant in due time. The film also looks at the importance of tradition and the sacrifices Jiro has made throughout his life to achieve his dream of creating the perfect sushi.

From Gabriel Axel, starring Stéphane Audran, Bodil Kjer, Birgitte Federspiel, Jarl Kulle
Rated G

Babette's Feast is a 1987 Danish drama film directed by Gabriel Axel. Set in a remote 19th-century Danish village, the film tells the story of two pious sisters who have devoted their lives to religion and helping the poor. When a mysterious Frenchwoman named Babette arrives in the village, she is welcomed by the sisters and offered a job as their maid. As repayment for the sisters’ kindness, Babette prepares for them a sumptuous feast. In doing so, she not only revives their waning spirit, but also brings together the village's divided and embittered congregants. Through Babette's magical cooking and true generosity, the villagers come to understand the power of grace and love.

From Ritesh Batra, starring Irrfan Khan, Nimrat Kaur, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Lillete Dubey
Rated PG

The Lunchbox is a 2013 Indian romantic drama film written and directed by Ritesh Batra, and produced by Guneet Monga, Anurag Kashyap, and Arun Rangachari. The film follows the story of Ila, a neglected housewife who lives in a Mumbai apartment with her distant husband, and her efforts to revive their marriage through the daily lunchbox she prepares for him. As a result of a mistaken delivery by the city's famously efficient dabbawallah lunchbox delivery system, her food arrives at the desk of Saajan Fernandes, an introverted widower about to retire from a job as a government accountant. After receiving Ila's lunchbox for a few days, Saajan realizes that it contains home-cooked meals from her kitchen. Through the lunchbox, the two lonely souls spark an unexpected connection. As their bond grows stronger, they each find solace in their respective loneliness. The film is a heart-warming story of love, companionship, and the importance of living life to its fullest.

From Luca Guadagnino, starring Timothée Chalamet, Armie Hammer, Michael Stuhlbarg, Amira Casar
Rated R

Call Me by Your Name is a 2017 coming-of-age drama directed by Luca Guadagnino. The film is set in 1983 in northern Italy, and follows Elio, a 17-year-old who falls in love with Oliver, a 24-year-old graduate student who is staying with Elio's family for the summer. As the two grow closer, Elio explores his sexuality, discovers a passion for music, and forms a bond with Oliver that will shape the rest of his life. Along the way, Elio's parents—played by Michael Stuhlbarg and Amira Casar—are supportive and loving, guiding him through his journey of self-discovery. As the summer draws to a close, Elio and Oliver must confront their uncertain future and the strength of their feelings for each other. The film received widespread critical acclaim, earning an Oscar nomination for Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay.

From Directors: Béla Tarr, Ágnes Hranitzky, starring János Derzsi, Erika Bók, Mihály Kormos, Ricsi
Rated Not Rated

The Turin Horse is a 2011 Hungarian-Swedish drama film directed by Béla Tarr and Ágnes Hranitzky. It stars János Derzsi as an elderly peasant and Erika Bók as his daughter, living in near-poverty in the Hungarian plains. One day, the father and daughter are approached by a stranger on horseback who asks to rest at their home. His presence has a profound effect on the family, leading them to a tragic course of events. The film is a meditation on the fragility of life and human destiny, told through the story of a father and daughter’s journey.

From Pedro Almodóvar, starring Penélope Cruz, Carmen Maura, Lola Dueñas, Blanca Portillo
Rated R

Volver is a 2006 Spanish comedy-drama film directed by Pedro Almodóvar. It stars Penélope Cruz, Carmen Maura, Lola Dueñas, Blanca Portillo, Yohana Cobo, and Chus Lampreave. The film follows Raimunda (Cruz), a working-class woman who is struggling to make ends meet for her daughter and herself following the death of her husband. However, when her sister Sole (Dueñas) returns from the dead, they are both forced to confront the dark secrets of their pasts. With the help of their mother Irene (Maura) and the other women in the neighborhood, the two sisters come to terms with the events of their past in order to move forward with their lives. Volver is an exploration of themes of death, love, and family, with nods to the ghost stories of Spanish folklore. It is both a touching and often humorous look at the strength of female friendships and the power of a mother's love. The film was a critical and commercial success, receiving numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

From Billy Wilder, starring Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn, William Holden, Walter Hampden
Rated Passed

Sabrina (1954) is a romantic comedy film directed by Billy Wilder and starring Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn, and William Holden. The film tells the story of a chauffeur's daughter who, after returning from a two-year stay in Paris, falls in love with the son of a wealthy family. The son, however, is already engaged to another woman. Sabrina must find a way to win the man she loves and prevent a potential family feud. With the help of the family's business manager, Sabrina is able to reunite the family and find happiness with her true love. The film is known for its witty and humorous dialogue, characters, and plot twists.

From Steven Spielberg, starring Richard Dreyfuss, François Truffaut, Teri Garr, Melinda Dillon
Rated PG

Close Encounters of the Third Kind is a science fiction film released in 1977, directed by Steven Spielberg. It tells the story of Roy Neary, an everyday man who has a close encounter with an alien craft. After witnessing the event, Roy becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth. He begins to experience visions of a mysterious mountain, and eventually discovers that he must journey to the site in order to meet the aliens. Along the way, he meets others who are also searching for the truth, and together they travel to the mountain in order to make contact with the aliens. The film follows Roy and his companions as they encounter supernatural forces, and ultimately make contact with an alien race. The film ends with Roy and his companions watching the aliens depart in their spacecraft, leaving behind a sign of peace.