This is a very slow-moving and simple movie. The plot is so incredibly simple and yet it is a wonderful film. I think most of this is because the dialog was so perfectly paced and the ensemble cast was terrific.
Here's the VERY simple plot: Two very nice old religious ladies living in a religious commune in the 19th century take in Babette. She is a younger woman with some sort of past who is seeking refuge. The kindly women agree to have her live with them and she becomes part maid and part friend to them. The food and lifestyle of the commune is extremely simple and without adornments. After living with them for many years, Babette receives a large inheritance. She announces she is making a feast for these women and their friends. Most of the movie involves watching her prep for it and the ensuing feast.
I won't spoil it with more details but can understand if the reader of this review thinks "what a DULL-sounding movie"! However, despite its simplicity it was nearly perfect in every way. A good indication of how good this film was is that my wife (who generally HATES foreign films and thinks that I, at times, have questionable taste) also loved the film. She, too, had a hard time describing exactly why the film was so captivating but we both felt tremendously moved. This film is a wonderful example of great acting, directing and writing. No explosions or comic sidekicks but still one heck of a nice film!!
Here's the VERY simple plot: Two very nice old religious ladies living in a religious commune in the 19th century take in Babette. She is a younger woman with some sort of past who is seeking refuge. The kindly women agree to have her live with them and she becomes part maid and part friend to them. The food and lifestyle of the commune is extremely simple and without adornments. After living with them for many years, Babette receives a large inheritance. She announces she is making a feast for these women and their friends. Most of the movie involves watching her prep for it and the ensuing feast.
I won't spoil it with more details but can understand if the reader of this review thinks "what a DULL-sounding movie"! However, despite its simplicity it was nearly perfect in every way. A good indication of how good this film was is that my wife (who generally HATES foreign films and thinks that I, at times, have questionable taste) also loved the film. She, too, had a hard time describing exactly why the film was so captivating but we both felt tremendously moved. This film is a wonderful example of great acting, directing and writing. No explosions or comic sidekicks but still one heck of a nice film!!