Let's Talk Turkey

Thanksgiving is here once again. It's that wonderful time of the year when everyone's thoughts turn to food and lots of it.

Before I continue, I should explain that, and this should come as no surprise for those of you who know me, I love food. Please do not jump to conclusions and start picturing someone who has Twinkies hidden in her glovebox or eats a Whopper meal at least once a day. These people do not love food, they hate it. They use food to punish themselves. No, I really love food. I love growing food, cooking for other people, trying interesting new foods and learning about the origin of recipes. So it is with great joy that I get to contemplate two of my favorite things at once: food in film.

Watch any Chaplin film and it very quickly becomes clear that access to food and especially an abundance of it represents true happiness. The ideal home is one where you pick fruit off of trees right from your kitchen window. Metaphors aside, some of my favorite movie scenes involve food. In While You Were Sleeping, the viewing of which is a Thanksgiving tradition in my house, one of the pivotal scenes takes place while the family is gathered around the table eating. "These mashed potatoes are so creamy!" In Hook, all one needs to keep full is a good imagination. Even in The Godfather, amongst extreme violence, we must never forsake the cannoli.

You may argue that of course food is prevalent in films because it is a necessity for life. However, how often do you see the main characters of movies excuse themselves to use the restroom? Food is more than a necessity. It is practical, versatile, and wonderful. Is can express joy, angst, revenge, modesty and love. And what better showcase for such a wondrous thing as food than film? So this Thanksgiving, give thanks, fill your plate with turkey and your head with a few film classics.