A French period drama hailed as “a gourmand’s dream of a film” is broadcasting on BBC Four tonight, with enthusiasts declaring it “the end-all-be-all of foodie films”. The movie, released in 2023, is a French historical romantic drama set in 1889, centring on the 20-year partnership between celebrated gourmet Dodin and his cook, Eugénie.

Their profound, unspoken love is conveyed through shared culinary artistry, but when Eugénie falls ill and refuses marriage, Dodin begins cooking for her, reversing their roles. The film stars Galatéa Bellugi as Violette, Bonnie Chagneau-Ravoire as Pauline, Benoît Magimel as Dodin, and Juliette Binoche as Eugénie.

Since its release, The Taste Of Things has garnered tremendous acclaim on film and TV review platform Rotten Tomatoes, where it boasts a near perfect score of 97 percent from audience reviews.

One fan review stated: “The film was lovely, from the garden to the kitchen to the exquisite prep, cook, serve of the dishes, gastronomically and emotionally fulfilling.”

Another commented: “Overall, I’m not a big fan of movies that revolve around lavish food, but The Taste of Things was an exception. Although the film features some excellent scenes showcasing mouth-watering dishes, it also has a touching and dramatic love story. I was eager to see how the story would unfold and was moved by it.

“The direction by Anh Hung Tran is remarkable. The lead actors deliver excellent performances, displaying moments of drama and romance with great skill. Like a sumptuous meal, this film has plenty of warmth and greatness that stays with you long after the credits roll.”

A third viewer expressed: “Even though I normally don’t watch films with subtitles, I loved this film. It was the most beautiful homage to gastronomy and relationships. I wish there were more films like this.”

A fourth chimed in: “A beautiful and soulful film about food and love. A gourmand’s dream of a film, the set design and cooking scenes alone are worth the price of admission. This is a lovely and joyous film.”

A fifth commented: “This is basically the end-all-be-all of foodie films. It’s French, there’s cooking galore, and there’s a great love story.”

Another shared: “An extraordinary movie of love and life. Set in a manor house with fine dining restaurant in France the movie combines the relationship of exquisite food and wine with cooking perfection to weld a deep personal relationship. Acting from both main characters is magnificent as is that of those supporting. Breathtaking cinematography and scenery captivates the beauty of provincial France. Deserves a rating to be included in the best of films this century.”

Another critique lauded the production as it stated: “Stunningly romantic and compellingly fascinating, the movie tells a love story between a famed chef and his cooking partner that takes place in an isolated but enchanting mansion surrounded by a lovely garden. The cooking scenes are absolutely brilliant, detailed and realistic yet extremely entertaining.

“The food look so delicious and the process of cooking can be enjoyable even with the sound. The relationship between the main characters is simple but filled with affectionate warmth. The finale is so warm and sweet that makes the film a perfect one.”