On CLIPS In August, 2009
JULIE & JULIA

The love of cooking changes the lives of Julia Child (Meryl Streep) and Julie Powell (Amy Adams).

TRIVIA: On which two books is this film based?

Julia Child (Meryl Streep) and Julie Powell (Amy Adams) both had their lives changed by the love of cooking. Looking for inspiration in her life, Julie Powell decided to cook all of the recipes in Child’s “Mastering The Art Of French Cooking” and write a blog on the experience. While living in Paris with her husband Paul (Stanley Tucci), Julia took lessons at the famous Le Cordon Bleu cooking school – which led to a successful career. “Julie & Julia” masterfully blends the turning points in the lives of these two fascinating women. Director/Screenwriter Nora Ephron has created an engrossing and wildly entertaining film that contains the most memorable performance of the year so far. Meryl Streep IS Julia Child. In mannerisms, appearance and voice, she has captured the very essence of Julia. Meryl is the leading contender for Best Actress of 2009. Amy Adams is enchanting in her role as Julie, leaving no doubt about her acting abilities. She may be in competition for the Actress award at year’s end. The supporting players take a back seat to the stars, but are equally superb. Stanley Tucci is marvelous as Paul Child, adding depth to his character with a minimum of screen time. Chris Messina plays Eric Powell as a person who dearly loves his wife, but is frustrated over her single-minded obsession. One of the many bright spots is footage of Dan Aykroyd’s zany impersonation of Julia Child on SNL. In yet another cinematic year loaded with junk food, “Julie & Julia” is a gourmet treat.