Skrzydełko czy nóżka / L’aile ou la cuisse (1976)
Film
Czas trwania: 1 godz. 44 min.
Opis
„Tribulation of Taste / L’aile ou la cuisse (1976)”
In the gastronomic realm of French culinary excellence, Charles Duchemin (played by Louis De Funes), a seasoned veteran at the age of 60, stands as an unparalleled authority. Esteemed by the proprietors of high-end restaurants and the owners of humble roadside eateries alike, Duchemin commands respect that transcends culinary borders. His legacy is not only confined to the pages of gastronomic guides but also extends to television broadcasts, essays, and eloquent dissertations, earning him an undeniable fame. Even the prestigious French Academy extends an invitation for him to become a member, a testament to his culinary prowess.
Charles Duchemin harbors the desire to embark on a well-deserved retirement and pass on his gastronomic legacy to his son, Pierre. However, fate has a different script in mind. Pierre, entrenched in the world of circus arts, is a member of a renowned troupe, a passion unbeknownst to his illustrious father. The impending clash of aspirations sets the stage for a comedic and heartwarming exploration of generational differences. As Charles dreams of a seamless transition of his culinary empire to the next Duchemin, Pierre juggles his passion for circus life while keeping it shrouded in secrecy from his father.
Beneath the surface of this family saga lies a culinary rivalry that adds spice to the narrative. Jean Tricatel, portrayed by Julien Guiomar, emerges as Charles Duchemin’s primary nemesis. Tricatel, the proprietor of a fast-food empire, sets his sights on the latest edition of Duchemin’s gastronomic guide. The coveted guide becomes a pawn in a high-stakes game, as Tricatel is determined to conquer the world of fine dining and elevate the status of his fast-food chain. A pivotal television program titled „Wszystkie chwyty dozwolone” beckons both Duchemin and Tricatel, setting the stage for a culinary showdown.
As the narrative unfolds, the film takes unexpected turns, weaving a tapestry of comedic mishaps and dramatic revelations. Charles Duchemin’s quest to secure evidence against the „fast-food king” for the TV program becomes a mission fraught with both culinary and personal challenges. The clash of traditional gastronomy with the rapidly evolving world of fast food leads to a series of amusing encounters and unforeseen consequences.
Tragedy strikes Charles Duchemin when, in a cruel twist of fate, he not only discovers his son’s hidden passion for the circus but also loses his sense of taste after dining at one of Tricatel’s restaurants. The comedic elements take a poignant turn, as the protagonist grapples with both personal and professional setbacks. The film skillfully balances humor with moments of reflection, offering a nuanced exploration of the complexities inherent in family dynamics and the evolving landscape of culinary preferences.
In the grand finale, the culinary duel between Duchemin and Tricatel unfolds on the television stage. The clash of culinary philosophies, traditional versus fast food, serves as a metaphor for the broader societal changes occurring in France during the era. The film cleverly intertwines gastronomic passion with societal commentary, creating a rich and layered narrative.
In conclusion, „Tribulation of Taste / L’aile ou la cuisse” is not merely a comedic exploration of culinary clashes and generational divides; it is a multifaceted tale that delves into the intricacies of family relationships, the evolving culinary landscape, and societal shifts. Louis De Funes delivers a stellar performance as Charles Duchemin, infusing the character with a blend of humor, vulnerability, and resilience. The film, directed by Claude Zidi, stands the test of time as a delightful cinematic experience that tickles the taste buds and tugs at the heartstrings.
