My Favorite Movies: Julie & Julia

I know Julie and Julia just came out a couple of years ago, but from my first viewing (with Alanna), it had a spot on my all-time favorites list. I love it more each time I watch it. I read and liked Julie Powell’s memoir, but in this movie, it was Meryl Streep’s portrayal of Julia Child that captured me. If the real Julia was like that (and I think she was), I’m tempted to put myself under her tutelage too!

This movie is about the central things in life, and how they impact one another. Food, love, marriage, friendship, family, passion, loyalty, achievement, determination, adventure, a sense of home, the way people communicate, even patriotism. It highlights how those things have changed (or not changed) over the last few generations. It gives you a lot to think about. It also provides a picture of a VERY inspiring marriage.

The way Julia and Paul love and support one another in this movie often brings me to tears – maybe especially because she wasn’t a traditional beauty in real life. She was so unique, and he saw her for the treasure she was. He saw the best in her and never let her give up on her dreams… and she did the same for him. They were truly best friends, partners in every sense. It gives me hope. I pray to have that kind of marriage someday.

I also connect with the fact that both of the titular women became successful writers, in one way or another, after a lot of struggle. Both had to find their passion, and then work hard to make their voices heard.

I don’t have Mastering the Art of French Cooking, but I want a copy. Not a new one, though – one that has some history. I’m hoping it’ll turn up on the bookshelf at thrift or at the antique store one of these days! However, last summer, I downloaded the official recipe for boeuf bourgignon from her publisher’s website, and cooked it. It was an experience! I doubt mine was as delicious as Julia’s would have been, but I sure enjoyed it. :) I ate it on the good china, too.