Babette’s Feast (1987) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Babette’s Feast (1987), directed by Gabriel Axel, is a Danish film that has garnered acclaim for its delicate storytelling and celebration of gastronomy and community. Based on a story by Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen), the film is a quiet yet powerful exploration of the transformative power of food and the human spirit.
In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s plot, performances, direction, and overall impact, and provide information on where to watch Babette’s Feast online, particularly in the United States.
Plot Summary
Set in a remote Danish village in the late 19th century, Babette’s Feast tells the story of two elderly sisters, Martine (played by Birgitte Federspiel) and Philippa (played by Bodil Kjer), who lead a simple and austere life according to the principles of their late father, a strict Lutheran minister. Their life revolves around their small religious community and their modest home.
Their lives change when Babette Hersant (played by Stéphane Audran), a French refugee and renowned chef, arrives in the village seeking asylum. Babette is taken in by the sisters and becomes their housekeeper and cook. For years, Babette prepares simple and unremarkable meals for the villagers, adhering to their modest way of life.
The plot takes a turn when Babette unexpectedly receives a windfall of money and decides to use it to prepare a lavish and extravagant feast for the sisters and their fellow villagers. The feast is a gastronomic masterpiece that introduces the villagers to the pleasures of fine dining and serves as a catalyst for personal and communal transformation.
Performances
- Stéphane Audran as Babette Hersant: Audran delivers a subtle and evocative performance as Babette. Her portrayal captures the character’s dignity, grace, and passion for cooking, revealing the depth of her sacrifice and the joy she derives from sharing her culinary art.
- Bodil Kjer as Philippa: Kjer plays one of the elderly sisters with warmth and a touch of wistfulness. Her performance highlights the simplicity and dedication of the sisters’ lives and their eventual openness to change.
- Birgitte Federspiel as Martine: Federspiel portrays the other sister with a mix of stoicism and tenderness. Her character’s journey from adherence to strict principles to embracing the joy of the feast is portrayed with sensitivity and depth.
Direction and Cinematography
Gabriel Axel’s direction in Babette’s Feast is characterized by its understated elegance and focus on character development. Axel’s approach allows the story to unfold gently, emphasizing the emotional and sensory experiences associated with the feast.
The cinematography, by Henning Kristiansen, complements the film’s tranquil and contemplative mood. The use of light, color, and composition enhances the film’s atmosphere, with particular attention given to the sensory details of the feast, which become a focal point of the narrative.
Themes and Storytelling
Babette’s Feast explores themes of self-sacrifice, redemption, and the power of art and food to bring people together. The film highlights the contrast between the austere lives of the villagers and the opulence of Babette’s feast, symbolizing the potential for transformation and joy.
The storytelling is centered around the idea of sharing and the impact of generosity on both the giver and the receiver. The feast itself becomes a metaphor for the richness of human experience and the capacity for beauty and pleasure to enrich lives.
Where to Watch Babette’s Feast Online
For viewers in the United States interested in watching Babette’s Feast, the film is available on several platforms:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video – Babette’s Feast may be available for streaming with an Amazon Prime membership or for rent/purchase.
- Hulu – Occasionally features classic and acclaimed films.
Rental and Purchase Options
If streaming options are not available, consider renting or purchasing the film through:
- Apple TV – Offers rental and purchase options in HD, with options for digital download.
- Google Play Movies & TV – Provides rental and purchase options.
- YouTube Movies – Another option for renting or purchasing.
- Vudu – Offers rental and purchase options, often with deals on recent releases and popular films.
- Microsoft Store – Available for rent or purchase through the Microsoft Store.
Availability and Regional Considerations
The availability of Babette’s Feast may vary by region and platform. If the film is not available in your area, using a VPN could help access the film from regions where it is offered. Be sure to review each platform’s terms of service regarding VPN usage.
Final Thoughts
Babette’s Feast is a beautifully crafted film that celebrates the art of cooking, the joys of sharing, and the transformative power of generosity. With its poignant storytelling, elegant direction, and evocative performances, the film offers a touching and memorable experience.
Whether you appreciate fine cuisine, enjoy intimate character studies, or are drawn to stories of personal and communal transformation, Babette’s Feast provides a richly rewarding viewing experience. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to enjoy this classic film and its celebration of the human spirit.
