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{{short description|1987 film by Gabriel Axel}}
{{short description|1987 film by Gabriel Axel}}
{{for|the 1958 short story by Karen Blixen|Babette's Feast (short story)}}
{{for|the 1958 short story “Babette's Feast” by Karen Blixen|Anecdotes of Destiny}}
{{Infobox film
{{Infobox film
| name = Babette's Feast
| name = Babette's Feast
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| producer = [[Just Betzer]]<br />[[Bo Christensen]]<br />[[Benni Korzen]]<br />Pernille Siesbye
| producer = [[Just Betzer]]<br />[[Bo Christensen]]<br />[[Benni Korzen]]<br />Pernille Siesbye
| screenplay = Gabriel Axel
| screenplay = Gabriel Axel
| based_on = ''Babette's Feast'' <br> by [[Karen Blixen|Isak Dinesen]]
| based_on = {{based on|''[[Anecdotes of Destiny|Babette's Feast]]''<br>1958 story|[[Karen Blixen|Isak Dinesen]]}}
| narrator = [[Ghita Nørby]]
| narrator = [[Ghita Nørby]]
| starring = [[Stéphane Audran|Stephane Audran]]<br />[[Birgitte Federspiel]]<br />[[Bodil Kjer]]
| starring = [[Stéphane Audran|Stephane Audran]]<br />[[Birgitte Federspiel]]<br />[[Bodil Kjer]]
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| gross = $4.4 million {{small|(US)}}<ref>{{mojo title|babettesfeast|Babettes gæstebud (Babette's Feast)}}</ref>
| gross = $4.4 million {{small|(US)}}<ref>{{mojo title|babettesfeast|Babettes gæstebud (Babette's Feast)}}</ref>
}}
}}
'''''Babette's Feast''''' ({{lang-da|Babettes Gæstebud}}) is a 1987 Danish [[Drama (film and television)|drama film]] directed by [[Gabriel Axel]]. The screenplay, written by Axel, was based on the 1958 story by [[Isak Dinesen]] (Karen Blixen). It was produced by [[Just Betzer]], [[Bo Christensen]], and [[Benni Korzen]] with funding from the [[Danish Film Institute]].
'''''Babette's Feast''''' ({{langx|da|Babettes Gæstebud}}) is a 1987 Danish [[Drama (film and television)|drama film]] directed by [[Gabriel Axel]]. The screenplay, written by Axel, was based on the [[Anecdotes of Destiny|1958 story]] by Isak Dinesen ([[Karen Blixen]]). It was produced by [[Just Betzer]], [[Bo Christensen]] and [[Benni Korzen]], with funding from the [[Danish Film Institute]]. It stars [[Stéphane Audran]], [[Birgitte Federspiel]], and [[Bodil Kjer]].


''Babette's Feast'' was the first Danish cinema film of a Blixen story. It was also the first Danish film to win the [[Academy Awards|Oscar]] for [[Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film|Best Foreign Language Film]].<ref>{{cite web | title = Babette's gæstebud | publisher = Danish Film Institute | url = http://www.dfi.dk/faktaomfilm/nationalfilmografien/nffilm.aspx?id=12}}</ref>
''Babette's Feast'' was met with widespread critical acclaim and became the first Danish film to win the [[60th Academy Awards|Oscar]] for [[Academy Award for Best International Feature Film|Best Foreign Language Film]].<ref>{{cite web | title = Babette's gæstebud | publisher = Danish Film Institute | url = http://www.dfi.dk/faktaomfilm/nationalfilmografien/nffilm.aspx?id=12}}</ref> It was also the first Danish cinema film of a Blixen story.


The film premiered in the [[Un Certain Regard]] section of the [[1987 Cannes Film Festival]].<ref name="festival-cannes.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.festival-cannes.com/en/archives/ficheFilm/id/458/year/1987.html |title=Festival de Cannes: Babette's Feast |access-date=2009-07-20 |work=festival-cannes.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121003003410/http://www.festival-cannes.com/en/archives/ficheFilm/id/458/year/1987.html |archive-date=2012-10-03 }}</ref>
The film premiered in the ''[[Un Certain Regard]]'' section of the [[1987 Cannes Film Festival]].<ref name="festival-cannes.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.festival-cannes.com/en/archives/ficheFilm/id/458/year/1987.html |title=Festival de Cannes: Babette's Feast |access-date=2009-07-20 |work=festival-cannes.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121003003410/http://www.festival-cannes.com/en/archives/ficheFilm/id/458/year/1987.html |archive-date=2012-10-03 }}</ref>


== Plot ==
==Plot==
The elderly and pious [[Protestant]] sisters Martine ([[Birgitte Federspiel]]) and Filippa ([[Bodil Kjer]]) live in a small village on the remote western coast of [[Jutland]] in 19th-century [[Denmark]]. Their father was a pastor who founded his own [[Pietist]]ic [[conventicle]]. With their father now dead and the austere sect drawing no new converts, the aging sisters preside over a dwindling congregation of white-haired believers.
The elderly and pious [[Protestantism|Protestant]] sisters Martine and Filippa live in a small village on the remote western coast of [[Jutland]] in 19th-century Denmark. Their late father was a pastor who founded his own [[Pietism|Pietistic]] [[conventicle]]. Lacking new converts, the aging sisters preside over a dwindling, elderly congregation.


The story flashes back 49 years, showing the sisters in their youth. The beautiful girls have many suitors, but their father rejects them all, and indeed derides marriage. Each daughter is courted by an impassioned suitor visiting Jutland – Martine by a charming young [[Swedish cavalry]] officer, Lorens Löwenhielm, and Filippa by a star [[baritone]], Achille Papin, from the [[Paris, France|Paris]] opera, on hiatus to the silence of the coast. Both sisters decide to stay with their father and spurn any life away from Jutland.
Forty-nine years before, the sisters had many suitors, but their father rejected them, to retain the women’s assistance with his pastoral mission. Martine was courted by a young [[List of Swedish cavalry regiments|Swedish cavalry]] officer, Lorens Löwenhielm, who was visiting Jutland. Filippa was courted by the famous [[baritone]] Achille Papin, on hiatus from the [[Paris Opera]]. Both sisters spurned their suitors and stayed with their father.


Thirty-five years later, Babette Hersant ([[Stéphane Audran]]) appears at their door. She carries only a letter from Papin, explaining that she is a refugee from [[Paris Commune|counter-revolutionary bloodshed in Paris]] and recommending her as a housekeeper. The sisters cannot afford to employ Babette, but she offers to work for free. Babette serves as their cook for the next 14 years, producing an improved version of the bland meals typical of the abstemious nature of the congregation and slowly gaining their respect, and that of the other local inhabitants. As the years go by, the sisters are deeply distressed by the increasing number of querulous arguments between the congregants. Babette is also troubled, and at one point, interrupts the arguments with a stern comment.
Thirty-five years later, Babette Hersant appears at their door. She carries a letter from Papin which explains that she is a refugee from [[Paris Commune|counter-revolutionary bloodshed in Paris]] and recommends her as a housekeeper. The sisters cannot afford to employ Babette, but she begs to work for free. Babette serves as their cook for the next fourteen years, producing improved versions of the bland meals typical of the abstemious nature of the congregation and gaining their respect, and that of the other locals. As the years go by, the sisters are deeply distressed by the increasing number of disputes between the congregants. Babette is also troubled, and at one point, interrupts the arguments with a stern rebuke.


Babette's only link to her former life is a [[lottery]] ticket. A Parisian friend annually renews the ticket. One day, she wins the lottery of 10,000 francs. Instead of using the money to return to Paris and her lost lifestyle, she decides to spend it preparing a delicious dinner for the sisters and their small congregation on the occasion of the founding pastor's hundredth birthday. More than just a feast, the meal is an outpouring of Babette's appreciation, an act of self-sacrifice. Babette tells no one that she is spending her entire winnings on the meal.
Babette's only link to her former life is a [[lottery]] ticket. A Parisian friend annually renews the ticket. One day, she wins the lottery and receives 10,000 francs. After her win she decides to prepare a dinner for the sisters and their small congregation on the occasion of the founding pastor's hundredth birthday. More than just a feast, the meal is an outpouring of Babette's appreciation, an act of self-sacrifice.


The sisters accept both Babette's meal and her offer to pay for the creation of a "real [[cuisine of France|French dinner]]". Babette arranges for her nephew to go to Paris and gather the supplies for the feast. The ingredients are plentiful, sumptuous, and exotic, and their arrival causes much discussion among the villagers. As the various never-before-seen ingredients arrive and preparations commence, the sisters begin to worry that the meal will become a sin of sensual luxury, if not some form of devilry. In a hasty conference, the sisters and the congregation agree to eat the meal, but to forgo speaking of any pleasure in it and to make no mention of the food during the dinner.
The sisters accept both Babette's meal and her offer to pay for the creation of a "real [[French cuisine|French dinner]]." Babette arranges for her nephew to go to Paris and gather the supplies for the feast. The ingredients are plentiful, sumptuous and exotic, and their arrival causes much consternation and discussion among the villagers. As the various never-before-seen ingredients arrive and preparations commence, the sisters begin to worry that the meal will become a sin of sensual luxury, if not some form of devilry. In a hasty conference, the sisters and the congregation agree to eat the meal, but to forgo speaking of any pleasure in it and to make no mention of the food during the dinner.


Martine's former suitor, Lorens, now a famous general married to a member of the [[Monarchy of Denmark|Queen's court]], comes as the guest of his aunt, the local lady of the manor and a member of the old pastor's congregation. He is unaware of the other guests' austere plans and as a man of the world and former [[attaché]] in Paris, he is the only person at the table qualified to comment on the meal. He regales the guests with abundant information about the extraordinary food and drink, comparing it to a meal he enjoyed years earlier at the famous [[Café Anglais]] in Paris. Although the other celebrants refuse to comment on the earthly pleasures of their meal, Babette's gifts break down their distrust and superstitions, elevating them physically and spiritually. Old wrongs are forgotten, ancient loves are rekindled and a mystical redemption of the human spirit settles over the table.
Martine's former suitor, Lorens, now a famous general married to a member of the [[Monarchy of Denmark|Queen's court]], comes as the guest of his aunt, the local lady of the manor and a member of the old pastor's congregation. He is unaware of the other guests' austere plans and as a man of the world and former [[attaché]] in Paris, he is the only person at the table qualified to comment on the meal. He regales the guests with abundant information about the extraordinary food and drink, comparing it to a meal he enjoyed years earlier at the famous [[Café Anglais]] in Paris. Although the other celebrants refuse to comment on the earthly pleasures of their meal, Babette's gifts break down their distrust and superstitions, elevating them physically and spiritually. Old wrongs are forgiven, ancient loves are rekindled and a mystical redemption of the human spirit settles over the table.


The sisters assume that Babette will now return to Paris. However, when she tells them that all of her money is gone and that she is not going anywhere, the sisters are aghast. Babette then reveals that she was formerly the head chef of the Café Anglais and tells them that dinner for 12 there has a price of 10,000 francs. Martine tearfully says, "Now you will be poor the rest of your life", to which Babette replies, "An artist is never poor." Filippa then says: "But this is not the end, Babette. In paradise you will be the great artist God meant you to be" and then embraces her with tears in her eyes saying: "Oh, how you will enchant the angels!", which is precisely how the short story ends.
Bereft, the sisters assume that Babette will return to Paris. However, when she says that all of her money is gone and that she is not going anywhere, the sisters are aghast. Babette then reveals that she was formerly the head chef of the Café Anglais, where a dinner for twelve cost 10,000 francs. Martine tearfully says, "Now you will be poor the rest of your life", to which Babette replies, "An artist is never poor." Filippa then says: "But this is not the end, Babette. In paradise you will be the great artist God meant you to be" and then embraces her with tears in her eyes saying: "Oh, how you will enchant the angels!".


== Cast ==
==Cast==
{{div col|colwidth=25em}}
{{div col|colwidth=25em}}
* [[Stéphane Audran]] as Babette Hersant
* [[Stéphane Audran]] as Babette Hersant
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* Gudmar Wivesson as Lorens (young)
* Gudmar Wivesson as Lorens (young)
* [[Bibi Andersson]] as Swedish courtier
* [[Bibi Andersson]] as Swedish courtier
* [[Pouel Kern]] as the pastor, the father
* Pouel Kern as the pastor, the father
* [[Bendt Rothe]] as Nielsen, parishioner
* [[Bendt Rothe]] as Nielsen, parishioner
* Cay Kristiansen as Poul, parishioner
* Cay Kristiansen as Poul, parishioner
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* [[Else Petersen]] as Solveig, parishioner
* [[Else Petersen]] as Solveig, parishioner
* Asta Esper Andersen as Anna, parishioner
* Asta Esper Andersen as Anna, parishioner
* [[Holger Perfort]] as Karlsen, parishioner
* Holger Perfort as Karlsen, parishioner
* Ebba With as Löwenhielm's aunt
* Ebba With as Löwenhielm's aunt
* [[Axel Strøbye]] as Löwenhielm's coachman
* [[Axel Strøbye]] as Löwenhielm's coachman
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{{div col end}}
{{div col end}}


== Production ==
==Production==
Blixen's original story takes place in the Norwegian port town of [[Berlevåg]], a setting of multicolored wood houses on a long fjord.<ref>Karen Blixen, ''Anecdotes of Destiny and Ehrengard'', "The Diver," "Babette's Feast," "Tempests," "The Immortal Story," "The Ring" (New York: Random House; London: Michael Joseph, 1958); Skæbne-Anekdoter (Copenhagen: Gyldendal, 1960)</ref> However, when Axel researched locations in Norway, he found the setting was too idyllic and resembled a "beautiful tourist brochure".<ref name="Mørch">Mørch, Karin, ''Gabriel's Gæstebud: Portrait af en Filmmager'', Copenhagen: Gyldendal, (2008) p.403</ref> He shifted the location to the flat windswept coast of western [[Jutland]] and asked his set designer, Sven Wichmann, to build a small grey village offering very few or no attractions. [[Mårup Church]], a plain Romanesque church built around 1250 on a remote seaside cliff near the village of [[Lønstrup]], was used as a backdrop.<ref>{{cite news | first=Bent | last=Nielsen | trans-title=Church on the edge sings the last verse | url=http://www.kristeligt-dagblad.dk/artikel/299221:Kirke---tro--Kirken-paa-kanten-synger-paa-sidste-vers | title=Kirken på kanten synger på sidste vers | newspaper=Kristeligt Dagblad | date=30 September 2008 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121017225604/http://www.kristeligt-dagblad.dk/artikel/299221:Kirke---tro--Kirken-paa-kanten-synger-paa-sidste-vers | archive-date=17 October 2012 }}</ref> Somewhat ironically, the actual village of Berlevåg is not on a fjord, but directly on the [[Barents sea]], and is subject to strong winds&mdash;very much similar to Axel's vision.
Blixen's original story takes place in the Norwegian port town of [[Berlevåg (village)|Berlevåg]], albeit in an inaccurate setting of multi-coloured wooden houses on a long fjord.<ref>Karen Blixen, ''Anecdotes of Destiny and Ehrengard'', "The Diver," "Babette's Feast," "Tempests," "The Immortal Story," "The Ring" (New York: Random House; London: Michael Joseph, 1958); Skæbne-Anekdoter (Copenhagen: Gyldendal, 1960)</ref> However, when Axel researched locations in Norway, he found the settings were too idyllic and resembled a "beautiful tourist brochure".<ref name="Mørch">Mørch, Karin, ''Gabriel's Gæstebud: Portrait af en Filmmager'', Copenhagen: Gyldendal, (2008) p.403</ref> He shifted the location to the flat windswept coast of western [[Jutland]] and asked his set designer, Sven Wichmann, to build a small grey village offering very few or no attractions. [[Mårup Church]], a plain Romanesque church built around 1250 on a remote seaside cliff near the village of [[Lønstrup]], was used as a backdrop.<ref>{{cite news | first=Bent | last=Nielsen | trans-title=Church on the edge sings the last verse | url=http://www.kristeligt-dagblad.dk/artikel/299221:Kirke---tro--Kirken-paa-kanten-synger-paa-sidste-vers | title=Kirken på kanten synger på sidste vers | newspaper=Kristeligt Dagblad | date=30 September 2008 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121017225604/http://www.kristeligt-dagblad.dk/artikel/299221:Kirke---tro--Kirken-paa-kanten-synger-paa-sidste-vers | archive-date=17 October 2012 }}</ref> Somewhat ironically, the actual village of Berlevåg is not on a fjord, but directly on the [[Barents Sea]], and is subject to strong winds&mdash;very much similar to Axel's vision.


Axel altered the setting from a ship-filled harbor to fisherman's rowboats on a beach. He said the changes would highlight Blixen's vision of Babette's life in near complete exile.<ref name="Mørch 2008 403">{{Harv| Mørch|2008|p=403}} translated from "Der er meget, der fungerer på skrift, men når det blive overført til billeder, giver det slet ikke samme indtryk eller følelse. Alle de ændringer, jeg foretog, gjorde jeg faktisk for at være tro mod Karen Blixens."</ref>
Axel altered the setting from a ship-filled harbor to fishermen's rowboats on a beach. He said the changes would highlight Blixen's vision of Babette's life in near complete exile.<ref name="Mørch 2008 403">{{Harv| Mørch|2008|p=403}} translated from "Der er meget, der fungerer på skrift, men når det blive overført til billeder, giver det slet ikke samme indtryk eller følelse. Alle de ændringer, jeg foretog, gjorde jeg faktisk for at være tro mod Karen Blixens."</ref>
{{blockquote|There is a lot that works in writing, but when translated to pictures, it doesn't give at all the same impression or feeling. All the changes I undertook, I did to actually be faithful to Karen Blixen. – Gabriel Axel<ref name="Mørch 2008 403" />}}
{{blockquote|There is a lot that works in writing, but when translated to pictures, it doesn't give at all the same impression or feeling. All the changes I undertook, I did to actually be faithful to Karen Blixen. – Gabriel Axel<ref name="Mørch 2008 403" />}}


The [[Nordisk Film]] production company suggested the cast of ''Babette's Feast'' should include only Danish actors to reduce production costs. However, Axel wanted Danish, Swedish and French actors to play the roles for the sake of authenticity. Axel was supported by the [[Danish Film Institute]]'s consultant, Claes Kastholm Hansen, who also agreed the cast should include international stars.<ref name="Mørch 2008 410">{{Harv| Mørch|2008|p=410}}</ref>
The [[Nordisk Film]] production company suggested the cast of ''Babette's Feast'' should include only Danish actors to reduce production costs. However, Axel wanted Danish, Swedish and French actors to play the roles for the sake of authenticity. Axel was supported by the [[Danish Film Institute]]'s consultant, Claes Kastholm Hansen, who also agreed the cast should include international stars.<ref name="Mørch 2008 410">{{Harv| Mørch|2008|p=410}}</ref> The title character of Babette was initially offered to [[Catherine Deneuve]]. Deneuve was interested in the part but was concerned because she had been criticized in her past attempts to depart from her usual ‘sophisticated woman’ roles.<ref name="Mørch 2008 410" /> While Deneuve deliberated for a day, Axel met with French actress [[Stéphane Audran]]. Axel remembered Audran from her roles in [[Claude Chabrol]]'s films ''[[Violette Nozière]]'' (1978) and ''[[Cop au Vin]]'' (1985). When Axel asked Chabrol (her former husband) about Audran's suitability, Chabrol said Audran was the archetype of Babette.<ref>{{Harv| Mørch|2008|p=411}}</ref> Axel gave the script to Audran, told her that Deneuve was contemplating the role, and asked her if she might be able to respond before the next day. Audran called two hours later and said she wanted the role. The following day, Deneuve declined and Audran was officially cast.<ref>{{Harv| Mørch|2008|p=412}}</ref>
The title character of Babette was initially offered to [[Catherine Deneuve]]. Deneuve was interested in the part but was concerned because she had been criticized in her past attempts to depart from her usual sophisticated woman roles.<ref name="Mørch 2008 410" /> While Deneuve deliberated for a day, Axel met with French actress [[Stéphane Audran]]. Axel remembered Audran from her roles in [[Claude Chabrol]]'s films ''[[Violette Nozière]]'' (1978) and ''[[Chicken with Vinegar|Poulet au vinaigre]]'' (1985). When Axel asked Chabrol (her former husband) about Audran's suitability, Chabrol said Audran was the archetype of Babette.<ref>{{Harv| Mørch|2008|p=411}}</ref> Axel gave the script to Audran, told her that Deneuve was contemplating the role, and asked her if she might be able to respond before the next day. Audran called two hours later and said she wanted the role. The following day, Deneuve declined and Audran was officially cast.<ref>{{Harv| Mørch|2008|p=412}}</ref>


Two other major parts were the characters of the elderly maiden sisters, Phillipa and Martine. Phillipa, the once-promising singer, was portrayed by [[Bodil Kjer]], considered the first lady of Danish theater and namesake of the [[Bodil Award]].<ref>Piil, Morten, ''Bodil Kjer'' Danske Filmskuespillere, Gyldendal, (2001), pp 230–235</ref> [[Birgitte Federspiel]], best known for Carl Dreyer's 1955 classic film ''[[Ordet]]'', was cast as the staid, love forlorn, Martine.
Two other major parts were the characters of the elderly maiden sisters, Phillipa and Martine. Phillipa, the once-promising singer, was portrayed by [[Bodil Kjer]], considered the first lady of Danish theater and namesake of the [[Bodil Awards|Bodil Award]].<ref>Piil, Morten, ''Bodil Kjer'' Danske Filmskuespillere, Gyldendal, (2001), pp 230–235</ref> [[Birgitte Federspiel]], best known for Carl Dreyer's 1955 classic film ''[[Ordet]]'', was cast as the staid, lovelorn Martine.


The role of the Swedish General Lorens Löwenhielm, the former suitor of Martine, was accepted by [[Jarl Kulle]] and the Swedish Court Lady by [[Bibi Andersson]]. Both had achieved international recognition as two of [[Ingmar Bergman]]'s favorite actors, appearing in many of his films.<ref>[http://www.ingmarbergman.se/universe.asp?guid=895A97B2-15CA-4740-8B14-890E85FF5CA8 "Jarl Kulle"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091007095518/http://www.ingmarbergman.se/universe.asp?guid=895A97B2-15CA-4740-8B14-890E85FF5CA8 |date=2009-10-07 }}, Filmography, Ingmar Bergman Foundation, ingmarbergman.se, retrieved 28-05-2009</ref><ref>[http://www.ingmarbergman.se/universe.asp?guid=F37A6950-3B08-4452-AFB5-5260A3A6DCC5 "Bibi Andersson"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091007093227/http://www.ingmarbergman.se/universe.asp?guid=F37A6950-3B08-4452-AFB5-5260A3A6DCC5 |date=2009-10-07 }}, Filmography, Ingmar Bergman Foundation, ingmarbergman.se, retrieved 28-05-2009</ref>
The role of the Swedish General Lorens Löwenhielm, the former suitor of Martine, was accepted by [[Jarl Kulle]] and the Swedish Court Lady by [[Bibi Andersson]]. Both had achieved international recognition as two of [[Ingmar Bergman]]'s favorite actors, appearing in many of his films.<ref>[http://www.ingmarbergman.se/universe.asp?guid=895A97B2-15CA-4740-8B14-890E85FF5CA8 "Jarl Kulle"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091007095518/http://www.ingmarbergman.se/universe.asp?guid=895A97B2-15CA-4740-8B14-890E85FF5CA8 |date=2009-10-07 }}, Filmography, Ingmar Bergman Foundation, ingmarbergman.se, retrieved 28-05-2009</ref><ref>[http://www.ingmarbergman.se/universe.asp?guid=F37A6950-3B08-4452-AFB5-5260A3A6DCC5 "Bibi Andersson"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091007093227/http://www.ingmarbergman.se/universe.asp?guid=F37A6950-3B08-4452-AFB5-5260A3A6DCC5 |date=2009-10-07 }}, Filmography, Ingmar Bergman Foundation, ingmarbergman.se, retrieved 28-05-2009</ref>
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The popular Danish actress [[Ghita Nørby]] was cast as the film's narrator. Although production consultants complained to Axel that the use of a narrator was too old-fashioned, Axel was adamant about using one. He said it was not about being old-fashioned but only about the need: "If there is need for a narrator, then one uses one."<ref name="Mørch 2008 403" />
The popular Danish actress [[Ghita Nørby]] was cast as the film's narrator. Although production consultants complained to Axel that the use of a narrator was too old-fashioned, Axel was adamant about using one. He said it was not about being old-fashioned but only about the need: "If there is need for a narrator, then one uses one."<ref name="Mørch 2008 403" />


== Menu ==
==Menu==
The seven-[[Course (food)|course]] menu in the film consisted of:
The seven-[[Course (food)|course]] menu in the film consisted of:
* "Potage à la Tortue" ([[turtle soup]]) served with [[Amontillado]] [[sherry]]
* "Potage à la Tortue" ([[turtle soup]]) served with [[Amontillado]] [[sherry]]
* "[[Blinis]] [[Demidoff]]" ([[buckwheat pancake]]s with [[caviar]] and [[sour cream]]) served with [[Veuve Cliquot]] Champagne
* "[[Blini|Blinis]] [[Demidov|Demidoff]]" ([[buckwheat pancake]]s with [[caviar]] and [[sour cream]]) served with [[Veuve Clicquot]] Champagne
* "Cailles en Sarcophage" ([[Common quail|quail]] in [[puff pastry]] shell with [[foie gras]] and [[truffle]] sauce) served with [[Clos de Vougeot]] [[Pinot Noir]]
* "Cailles en Sarcophage" ([[Common quail|quail]] in [[puff pastry]] shell with [[foie gras]] and [[truffle]] sauce) served with [[Clos de Vougeot]] [[Pinot noir|Pinot Noir]]
* an [[endive]] salad
* An [[endive]] salad
* "Savarin au Rhum avec des Figues et Fruit Glacée" ([[Rum baba|rum sponge cake]] with [[Common fig|figs]] and [[candied cherries]]) served with Champagne
* "Savarin au Rhum avec des Figues et Fruit Glacée" ([[Rum baba|rum sponge cake]] with [[Fig|figs]] and [[Candied fruit|candied cherries]]) served with Champagne
* assorted cheeses and fruits served with [[sauternes (wine)|Sauternes]]
* Assorted cheeses and fruits served with [[sauternes (wine)|Sauternes]]
* coffee with vieux marc [[Grande Champagne]] cognac.<ref>{{cite book|last=Heiter|first=Celeste|title=A Culinary Homage to Babette's Feast|url=https://www.amazon.com/Culinary-Homage-Babettes-LoveBites-Cookbooks-ebook/dp/B007U205Y2|access-date=October 6, 2014|series=Love Bites: Romantic Dinners for Two|year=2012|publisher=lovebitescookbooks.com|page=1}}</ref>
* Coffee with vieux marc [[Grande Champagne]] cognac.<ref>{{cite book|last=Heiter|first=Celeste|title=A Culinary Homage to Babette's Feast|url=https://www.amazon.com/Culinary-Homage-Babettes-LoveBites-Cookbooks-ebook/dp/B007U205Y2|access-date=October 6, 2014|series=Love Bites: Romantic Dinners for Two|year=2012|publisher=lovebitescookbooks.com|page=1}}</ref>


== Reception ==
==Release==
===Reception===
Upon its release in 1987, ''Babette's Feast'' received positive reviews.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bfi.org.uk/news-opinion/bfi-news/then-now-babettes-feast-reviewed|title=Then and now: Babette's Feast reviewed|last=Wigley|first=Samuel|date=3 April 2014|work=Film Forever|publisher=British Film Institute|access-date=6 October 2014}}</ref> The film won the 1987 [[Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film|Best Foreign Language Film]] at the Academy Awards.<ref name="Oscars1988">{{Cite web|url=http://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/1988 |title=The 60th Academy Awards (1988) Nominees and Winners |access-date=16 August 2015 |work=oscars.org}}</ref> It also received the [[BAFTA]] Film Award for [[BAFTA Award for Best Film Not in the English Language|Best Foreign Language Film]]. In Denmark, it won both the [[Bodil Award|Bodil]] and [[Robert Award|Robert]] awards for Best Danish Film of the Year. The film was nominated and/or won several other awards including a [[Golden Globe]] nomination, the [[Grand Prix (Belgian Film Critics Association)]] award and a [[Cannes Film Festival]] special prize.
Upon its release in 1987, ''Babette's Feast'' received positive reviews.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bfi.org.uk/features/then-now-babettes-feast-reviewed|title=Then and now: Babette's Feast reviewed|last=Wigley|first=Samuel|date=April 3, 2014|work=Film Forever|publisher=British Film Institute|access-date=October 6, 2014}}</ref> The film won the 1987 [[Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film|Best Foreign Language Film]] at the Academy Awards.<ref name="Oscars1988">{{Cite web|url=http://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/1988 |title=The 60th Academy Awards (1988) Nominees and Winners |access-date=August 16, 2015 |publisher=[[Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences]]}}</ref> It also received the [[BAFTA]] Film Award for [[BAFTA Award for Best Film Not in the English Language|Best Foreign Language Film]]. In Denmark, it won both the [[Bodil Award|Bodil]] and [[Robert Award|Robert]] awards for Best Danish Film of the Year. The film was nominated and/or won several other awards including a [[Golden Globe]] nomination, the [[Grand Prix (Belgian Film Critics Association)]] award and a [[Cannes Film Festival]] special prize.


{{as of|2019|May}}, the film maintained a 97% approval rating on the [[Rotten Tomatoes]] aggregate review website from 29 reviews.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/babettes_feast/|title=Babettes Gaestebud (Babette's Feast) (1987)|work=Rotten Tomatoes|publisher=Flixster IOnc.|access-date=4 March 2016}}</ref> After the film's release, several restaurants offered recreations of the film's menu.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1988/03/02/garden/in-babette-a-great-feast-for-the-palate-and-the-eye.html|title=In 'Babette,' A Great Feast For the Palate And the Eye|last=Fabricant|first=Florence|date=March 2, 1988|work=New York Times|access-date=4 March 2016}}</ref>
The film maintained a 97% "Fresh" rating {{asof|2024|lc=y}} on [[Rotten Tomatoes]] based on 34 reviews, and an average score of 8.5/10. The site's consensus is; "Charming and melancholy, ''Babette's Feast'' is a timeless Scandinavian treat that explores the complex relationships between people, beliefs, and what it means to be an artist."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/babettes_feast/|title=Babettes Gaestebud (Babette's Feast) (1987)|work=[[Rotten Tomatoes]]|publisher=Flixster IOnc.|access-date=March 4, 2016}}</ref> The film also has a [[weighted average]] score of 78 out of 100 at [[Metacritic]] based on reviews from 18 critics, indicating "generally favorable reviews".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/movie/babettes-feast/|title=Babette's Feast|website=[[Metacritic]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|access-date=February 22, 2024}}</ref> After the film's release, several restaurants offered recreations of the film's menu.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1988/03/02/garden/in-babette-a-great-feast-for-the-palate-and-the-eye.html|title=In 'Babette,' A Great Feast For the Palate And the Eye|last=Fabricant|first=Florence|date=March 2, 1988|newspaper=[[The New York Times]]|access-date=March 4, 2016}}</ref>


The movie is a favorite of [[Alton Brown]],<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/T1-k7VYwsHg Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20180426160554/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1-k7VYwsHg Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1-k7VYwsHg#t=8m55| title = Alton Brown Rigorously Reviews Spicy Wings {{!}} Hot Ones | website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref> [[Pope Francis]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://aleteia.org/2016/11/21/why-does-pope-francis-want-us-to-watch-the-movie-babettes-feast/|title = Why does Pope Francis want us to watch the movie "Babette's Feast"?|date = 21 November 2016}}</ref> and [[Rowan Williams]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/3613962/The-Dark-Materials-debate-life-God-the-universe....html|title=The Dark Materials debate: Life, God, the universe}}</ref>
The movie is a favorite of [[Alton Brown]],<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/T1-k7VYwsHg Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20180426160554/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1-k7VYwsHg Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1-k7VYwsHg#t=8m55 |title=Alton Brown Rigorously Reviews Spicy Wings {{!}} Hot Ones |website=[[YouTube]]|date=26 April 2018 }}{{cbignore}}</ref> [[Pope Francis]],<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://aleteia.org/2016/11/21/why-does-pope-francis-want-us-to-watch-the-movie-babettes-feast/ |title=Why does Pope Francis want us to watch the movie "Babette's Feast"? |work=[[Aleteia]] |date=November 21, 2016}}</ref> [[Rowan Williams]],<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/3613962/The-Dark-Materials-debate-life-God-the-universe....html |title=The Dark Materials debate: Life, God, the universe |newspaper=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |date=March 17, 2004}}</ref> [[Richard Gere]],<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/article/richard-geres-five-favorite-films/ |title=Richard Gere's Five Favorite Films |work=[[Rotten Tomatoes]] |publisher=Flixster IOnc. |access-date=February 22, 2024}}</ref> and [[Stanley Tucci]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://letterboxd.com/festiville/story/tuccis-feast-food-loving-star-stanley-tucci/ |title=Tucci's Feast: Food-loving star Stanley Tucci on the culinary film that makes him moan |date=April 19, 2023 |work=[[Letterboxd]] |access-date=February 22, 2024}}</ref> The film was included by the Vatican in [[Vatican's list of films|a list of important films]] compiled in 1995, under the category of "Religion".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://old.usccb.org/movies/vaticanfilms.shtml |title=Vatican Best Films List |work=Official website of the [[United States Conference of Catholic Bishops|U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops]] |access-date=2012-04-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120422064928/http://old.usccb.org/movies/vaticanfilms.shtml |archive-date=2012-04-22 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


===Home video===
⚫
== American remake ==
''Babette's Feast'' was released on [[DVD]] by [[Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer|MGM]] on January 23, 2001, presented in its original 1.85:1 widescreen aspect ratio. The only special feature was the original theatrical trailer.<ref>{{cite web|title=Babette's Feast|url=https://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/review/1577|publisher=[[DVD Talk]]|access-date=February 22, 2024}}</ref>
⚫
In December 2019, it was announced that [[Alexander Payne]] was asked to direct an American remake of the film.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lattanzio|first=Ryan|title=Alexander Payne Rebounds From Cancelled Netflix Project With 'Babette's Feast' Remake|date=2 December 2019|publisher=[[IndieWire]]|url=https://www.indiewire.com/2019/12/alexander-payne-babettes-feast-1202193668/|access-date=24 July 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Mike Fleming Jr.|title=Alexander Payne Takes On Reimagining Of 'Babette's Feast'|date=2 December 2019|publisher=[[Deadline Hollywood]]|url=https://deadline.com/2019/12/alexander-payne-babettes-feast-remake-bob-shaye-1202798401/|access-date=24 July 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Gemmill|first=Allie|title='Downsizing' Director Alexander Payne to Direct New Take on 'Babette's Feast'|date=2 December 2019|publisher=[[Collider (website)|Collider]]|url=https://collider.com/alexander-payne-babettes-feast-remake/|access-date=24 July 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Mike Fleming Jr.|title=Alexander Payne Takes On Reimagining Of 'Babette's Feast'|date=2 December 2019|publisher=[[Yahoo! Sports]]|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/alexander-payne-takes-reimagining-babette-181720220.html|access-date=24 July 2020}}</ref> Payne's version was planned to be set in [[Minnesota]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Lee Svitak Dean|title=Minnesota will be the setting for remake of Oscar-winning film 'Babette's Feast'|date=11 December 2019|publisher=[[Star Tribune]]|url=https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-will-be-the-setting-for-remake-of-oscar-winning-film-babette-s-feast/566077511/|access-date=24 July 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Sasvari|first=Joanne|title=Salut!: Babette's stuffed quail a French decadence worth recreating|date=18 February 2020|publisher=[[Vancouver Sun]]|url=https://vancouversun.com/life/food/salut-babettes-stuffed-quail-a-french-decadence-worth-recreating|access-date=24 July 2020}}</ref>


On July 23, 2013, the film was released by [[The Criterion Collection]] on DVD and [[Blu-ray]]. The Blu-ray has a new, restored high-definition digital transfer, and features new video interviews with star Stéphane Audran, sociologist Priscilla Parkhurst Ferguson, and a 1995 documentary about author Karen Blixen, as well as a booklet featuring an essay by film scholar Mark Le Fanu and Dinesen's 1950 story.<ref>{{cite web|title=Babette's Feast|url=https://www.criterion.com/films/27894-babette-s-feast|publisher=[[The Criterion Collection]]|access-date=February 22, 2024}}</ref>
⚫
== See also ==

⚫
==American remake==
⚫
In December 2019, it was announced that [[Alexander Payne]] had been asked to direct an American remake of the film.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lattanzio|first=Ryan|title=Alexander Payne Rebounds From Cancelled Netflix Project With 'Babette's Feast' Remake|date=2 December 2019|publisher=[[IndieWire]]|url=https://www.indiewire.com/2019/12/alexander-payne-babettes-feast-1202193668/|access-date=24 July 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Mike Fleming Jr.|title=Alexander Payne Takes On Reimagining Of 'Babette's Feast'|date=2 December 2019|publisher=[[Deadline Hollywood]]|url=https://deadline.com/2019/12/alexander-payne-babettes-feast-remake-bob-shaye-1202798401/|access-date=24 July 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Gemmill|first=Allie|title='Downsizing' Director Alexander Payne to Direct New Take on 'Babette's Feast'|date=2 December 2019|publisher=[[Collider (website)|Collider]]|url=https://collider.com/alexander-payne-babettes-feast-remake/|access-date=24 July 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Mike Fleming Jr.|title=Alexander Payne Takes On Reimagining Of 'Babette's Feast'|date=2 December 2019|publisher=[[Yahoo! Sports]]|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/alexander-payne-takes-reimagining-babette-181720220.html|access-date=24 July 2020}}</ref> Payne's version was planned to be set in [[Minnesota]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Lee Svitak Dean|title=Minnesota will be the setting for remake of Oscar-winning film 'Babette's Feast'|date=11 December 2019|publisher=[[Star Tribune]]|url=https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-will-be-the-setting-for-remake-of-oscar-winning-film-babette-s-feast/566077511/|access-date=24 July 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Sasvari|first=Joanne|title=Salut!: Babette's stuffed quail a French decadence worth recreating|date=18 February 2020|publisher=[[Vancouver Sun]]|url=https://vancouversun.com/life/food/salut-babettes-stuffed-quail-a-french-decadence-worth-recreating|access-date=24 July 2020}}</ref>

⚫
==See also==
* [[List of submissions to the 60th Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film]]
* [[List of submissions to the 60th Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film]]
* [[List of Danish submissions for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film]]
* [[List of Danish submissions for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film]]


== References ==
==References==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}


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* {{cite book |last1=Mørch |first1=Karin |title=Gabriels gæstebud: portræt af en filmmager |date=2008 |publisher=Gyldendal A/S |isbn=978-87-02-06775-0 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=dvqAevpoa30C |language=da}}
* {{cite book |last1=Mørch |first1=Karin |title=Gabriels gæstebud: portræt af en filmmager |date=2008 |publisher=Gyldendal A/S |isbn=978-87-02-06775-0 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=dvqAevpoa30C |language=da}}


== Further reading ==
==Further reading==
* {{cite journal |last1=Curry |first1=Thomas J. |year=2012 |title=Babette's Feast and the Goodness of God |journal=Journal of Religion & Film |volume=16 |issue=2 |url=http://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/jrf/vol16/iss2/10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130214065632/http://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/jrf/vol16/iss2/10/ |url-status=live |archive-date=February 14, 2013}} [http://works.bepress.com/thomas_curry/1 Alt URL]
* {{cite journal |last1=Curry |first1=Thomas J. |year=2012 |title=Babette's Feast and the Goodness of God |journal=Journal of Religion & Film |volume=16 |issue=2 |url=http://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/jrf/vol16/iss2/10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130214065632/http://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/jrf/vol16/iss2/10/ |url-status=live |archive-date=February 14, 2013}} [http://works.bepress.com/thomas_curry/1 Alt URL]
* {{cite book |first1=Sarah Webster |last1=Goodwin |chapter=Knowing better: feminism and utopian discourse in ''Pride and Prejudice'', ''Villette'', and ''Babette's feast'' |pages=[https://archive.org/details/feminismutopiana00jone/page/1 1–20] |editor1-first=Libby Falk |editor1-last=Jones |editor2-first=Sarah McKim Webster |editor2-last=Goodwin |year=1990 |title=Feminism, Utopia, and Narrative |series=Tennessee Studies in Literature |isbn=978-0-87049-636-3 |url-access=registration |url=https://archive.org/details/feminismutopiana00jone/page/1 }}
* {{cite book |first1=Sarah Webster |last1=Goodwin |chapter=Knowing better: feminism and utopian discourse in ''Pride and Prejudice'', ''Villette'', and ''Babette's feast'' |pages=[https://archive.org/details/feminismutopiana00jone/page/1 1–20] |editor1-first=Libby Falk |editor1-last=Jones |editor2-first=Sarah McKim Webster |editor2-last=Goodwin |year=1990 |title=Feminism, Utopia, and Narrative |series=Tennessee Studies in Literature |isbn=978-0-87049-636-3 |url-access=registration |url=https://archive.org/details/feminismutopiana00jone/page/1 }}
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* {{cite journal |last1=Wright |first1=Wendy M. |title=''Babette's Feast'': A Religious Film |journal=Journal of Religion and Film |volume=1 |issue=2 |year=1997 |url=http://www.unomaha.edu/jrf/BabetteWW.htm |access-date=2009-07-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090416233214/http://www.unomaha.edu/jrf/BabetteWW.htm |archive-date=2009-04-16 |url-status=dead }}
* {{cite journal |last1=Wright |first1=Wendy M. |title=''Babette's Feast'': A Religious Film |journal=Journal of Religion and Film |volume=1 |issue=2 |year=1997 |url=http://www.unomaha.edu/jrf/BabetteWW.htm |access-date=2009-07-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090416233214/http://www.unomaha.edu/jrf/BabetteWW.htm |archive-date=2009-04-16 |url-status=dead }}


== External links ==
==External links==
* {{IMDb title|0092603}}
* {{IMDb title|0092603}}
* {{allrovi movie|3549}}
* {{allrovi movie|3549}}
* {{tcmdb title|id=67854}}
* {{mojo title|babettesfeast}}
* {{mojo title|babettesfeast}}
* {{rotten-tomatoes|babettes_feast}}
* {{rotten-tomatoes|babettes_feast}}
* [http://www.karenblixen.com/babette.html An extensive collection of links about ''Babette's Feast''] at KarenBlixen.com
* [http://www.karenblixen.com/babette.html An extensive collection of links about ''Babette's Feast''] at KarenBlixen.com
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20060516110917/http://dnfx.dfi.dk/pls/dnf/pwt.page_setup?p_pagename=dnffuldvis&p_parmlist=filmid=12 ''Babettes gæstebud''] at the Danish Film Institute (in Danish)
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20060516110917/http://dnfx.dfi.dk/pls/dnf/pwt.page_setup?p_pagename=dnffuldvis&p_parmlist=filmid=12 ''Babettes gæstebud''] at the Danish Film Institute (in Danish)
* [http://artsandfaith.com/t100/babettesfeast.html Voted #3 on The Arts and Faith Top 100 Films (2010)]
* [http://artsandfaith.com/t100/babettesfeast.html Voted #3 on The Arts and Faith Top 100 Films (2010)] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100414065156/http://artsandfaith.com/t100/babettesfeast.html |date=2010-04-14 }}
*[https://www.criterion.com/current/posts/2842-babette-s-feast-mercy-and-truth-have-met-together ''Babette’s Feast: “Mercy and Truth Have Met Together”''] an essay by Mark Le Fanu at the [[Criterion Collection]]
* [https://www.criterion.com/current/posts/2842-babette-s-feast-mercy-and-truth-have-met-together ''Babette’s Feast: “Mercy and Truth Have Met Together”''] an essay by Mark Le Fanu at the [[Criterion Collection]]


{{Gabriel Axel}}
{{Gabriel Axel}}
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{{AcademyAwardBestForeignLanguageFilm 1981–2000}}
{{AcademyAwardBestForeignLanguageFilm 1981–2000}}
{{BAFTA Best Foreign Language Film}}
{{BAFTA Best Foreign Language Film}}
{{Danish submission for Academy Awards}}
{{London Film Critics Circle Award for Foreign Language Film of the Year}}
{{London Film Critics Circle Award for Foreign Language Film of the Year}}
}}
}}
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[[Category:1987 films]]
[[Category:1987 films]]
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[[Category:1987 multilingual films]]
[[Category:1987 romantic drama films]]
[[Category:1987 romantic drama films]]
[[Category:Films about Christianity]]
[[Category:1980s Danish-language films]]
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[[Category:Danish films]]
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[[Category:Danish romantic drama films]]
[[Category:Danish-language films]]
[[Category:1980s Swedish-language films]]
[[Category:1980s French-language films]]
[[Category:1980s French-language films]]
[[Category:Films directed by Gabriel Axel]]
[[Category:1980s Swedish-language films]]
[[Category:Best Foreign Language Film Academy Award winners]]
[[Category:Best Foreign Language Film Academy Award winners]]
[[Category:Best Foreign Language Film BAFTA Award winners]]
[[Category:Cooking films]]
[[Category:Cooking films]]
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[[Category:Danish Culture Canon]]
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[[Category:Danish multilingual films]]
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[[Category:Danish romantic drama films]]
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[[Category:Films about Christianity]]
[[Category:Films about food and drink]]
[[Category:Films about food and drink]]
[[Category:Films about old age]]
[[Category:Films about sisters]]
[[Category:Films based on Danish novels]]
[[Category:Films based on works by Karen Blixen]]
[[Category:Films based on works by Karen Blixen]]
[[Category:Films shot in Denmark]]
[[Category:Films directed by Gabriel Axel]]
[[Category:Films set in the 19th century]]
[[Category:Films set in Denmark]]
[[Category:Films set in Denmark]]
[[Category:Films set in the 19th century]]
[[Category:Films shot in Denmark]]
[[Category:Best Foreign Language Film BAFTA Award winners]]
[[Category:Films scored by Per Nørgård]]
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[[Category:Danish Culture Canon]]
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[[Category:Films based on Danish novels]]
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[[Category:1980s multilingual films]]
[[Category:Danish multilingual films]]

Latest revision as of 04:05, 22 November 2024

For the 1958 short story “Babette's Feast” by Karen Blixen, see Anecdotes of Destiny.
Babette's Feast
Theatrical release poster
Directed byGabriel Axel
Screenplay byGabriel Axel
Based onBabette's Feast
1958 story
by Isak Dinesen
Produced byJust Betzer
Bo Christensen
Benni Korzen
Pernille Siesbye
StarringStephane Audran
Birgitte Federspiel
Bodil Kjer
Narrated byGhita Nørby
CinematographyHenning Kristiansen
Edited byFinn Henriksen
Music byPer Nørgård
Production
company
Release date
  • 28 August 1987 (1987-08-28)
Running time
102 minutes
CountryDenmark
LanguagesDanish
Swedish
French
Box office$4.4 million (US)[1]

Babette's Feast (Danish: Babettes Gæstebud) is a 1987 Danish drama film directed by Gabriel Axel. The screenplay, written by Axel, was based on the 1958 story by Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen). It was produced by Just Betzer, Bo Christensen and Benni Korzen, with funding from the Danish Film Institute. It stars Stéphane Audran, Birgitte Federspiel, and Bodil Kjer.

Babette's Feast was met with widespread critical acclaim and became the first Danish film to win the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film.[2] It was also the first Danish cinema film of a Blixen story.

The film premiered in the Un Certain Regard section of the 1987 Cannes Film Festival.[3]

Plot

[edit]

The elderly and pious Protestant sisters Martine and Filippa live in a small village on the remote western coast of Jutland in 19th-century Denmark. Their late father was a pastor who founded his own Pietistic conventicle. Lacking new converts, the aging sisters preside over a dwindling, elderly congregation.

Forty-nine years before, the sisters had many suitors, but their father rejected them, to retain the women’s assistance with his pastoral mission. Martine was courted by a young Swedish cavalry officer, Lorens Löwenhielm, who was visiting Jutland. Filippa was courted by the famous baritone Achille Papin, on hiatus from the Paris Opera. Both sisters spurned their suitors and stayed with their father.

Thirty-five years later, Babette Hersant appears at their door. She carries a letter from Papin which explains that she is a refugee from counter-revolutionary bloodshed in Paris and recommends her as a housekeeper. The sisters cannot afford to employ Babette, but she begs to work for free. Babette serves as their cook for the next fourteen years, producing improved versions of the bland meals typical of the abstemious nature of the congregation and gaining their respect, and that of the other locals. As the years go by, the sisters are deeply distressed by the increasing number of disputes between the congregants. Babette is also troubled, and at one point, interrupts the arguments with a stern rebuke.

Babette's only link to her former life is a lottery ticket. A Parisian friend annually renews the ticket. One day, she wins the lottery and receives 10,000 francs. After her win she decides to prepare a dinner for the sisters and their small congregation on the occasion of the founding pastor's hundredth birthday. More than just a feast, the meal is an outpouring of Babette's appreciation, an act of self-sacrifice.

The sisters accept both Babette's meal and her offer to pay for the creation of a "real French dinner." Babette arranges for her nephew to go to Paris and gather the supplies for the feast. The ingredients are plentiful, sumptuous and exotic, and their arrival causes much consternation and discussion among the villagers. As the various never-before-seen ingredients arrive and preparations commence, the sisters begin to worry that the meal will become a sin of sensual luxury, if not some form of devilry. In a hasty conference, the sisters and the congregation agree to eat the meal, but to forgo speaking of any pleasure in it and to make no mention of the food during the dinner.

Martine's former suitor, Lorens, now a famous general married to a member of the Queen's court, comes as the guest of his aunt, the local lady of the manor and a member of the old pastor's congregation. He is unaware of the other guests' austere plans and as a man of the world and former attaché in Paris, he is the only person at the table qualified to comment on the meal. He regales the guests with abundant information about the extraordinary food and drink, comparing it to a meal he enjoyed years earlier at the famous Café Anglais in Paris. Although the other celebrants refuse to comment on the earthly pleasures of their meal, Babette's gifts break down their distrust and superstitions, elevating them physically and spiritually. Old wrongs are forgiven, ancient loves are rekindled and a mystical redemption of the human spirit settles over the table.

Bereft, the sisters assume that Babette will return to Paris. However, when she says that all of her money is gone and that she is not going anywhere, the sisters are aghast. Babette then reveals that she was formerly the head chef of the Café Anglais, where a dinner for twelve cost 10,000 francs. Martine tearfully says, "Now you will be poor the rest of your life", to which Babette replies, "An artist is never poor." Filippa then says: "But this is not the end, Babette. In paradise you will be the great artist God meant you to be" and then embraces her with tears in her eyes saying: "Oh, how you will enchant the angels!".

Cast

[edit]

Production

[edit]

Blixen's original story takes place in the Norwegian port town of Berlevåg, albeit in an inaccurate setting of multi-coloured wooden houses on a long fjord.[4] However, when Axel researched locations in Norway, he found the settings were too idyllic and resembled a "beautiful tourist brochure".[5] He shifted the location to the flat windswept coast of western Jutland and asked his set designer, Sven Wichmann, to build a small grey village offering very few or no attractions. Mårup Church, a plain Romanesque church built around 1250 on a remote seaside cliff near the village of Lønstrup, was used as a backdrop.[6] Somewhat ironically, the actual village of Berlevåg is not on a fjord, but directly on the Barents Sea, and is subject to strong winds—very much similar to Axel's vision.

Axel altered the setting from a ship-filled harbor to fishermen's rowboats on a beach. He said the changes would highlight Blixen's vision of Babette's life in near complete exile.[7]

There is a lot that works in writing, but when translated to pictures, it doesn't give at all the same impression or feeling. All the changes I undertook, I did to actually be faithful to Karen Blixen. – Gabriel Axel[7]

The Nordisk Film production company suggested the cast of Babette's Feast should include only Danish actors to reduce production costs. However, Axel wanted Danish, Swedish and French actors to play the roles for the sake of authenticity. Axel was supported by the Danish Film Institute's consultant, Claes Kastholm Hansen, who also agreed the cast should include international stars.[8] The title character of Babette was initially offered to Catherine Deneuve. Deneuve was interested in the part but was concerned because she had been criticized in her past attempts to depart from her usual ‘sophisticated woman’ roles.[8] While Deneuve deliberated for a day, Axel met with French actress Stéphane Audran. Axel remembered Audran from her roles in Claude Chabrol's films Violette Nozière (1978) and Cop au Vin (1985). When Axel asked Chabrol (her former husband) about Audran's suitability, Chabrol said Audran was the archetype of Babette.[9] Axel gave the script to Audran, told her that Deneuve was contemplating the role, and asked her if she might be able to respond before the next day. Audran called two hours later and said she wanted the role. The following day, Deneuve declined and Audran was officially cast.[10]

Two other major parts were the characters of the elderly maiden sisters, Phillipa and Martine. Phillipa, the once-promising singer, was portrayed by Bodil Kjer, considered the first lady of Danish theater and namesake of the Bodil Award.[11] Birgitte Federspiel, best known for Carl Dreyer's 1955 classic film Ordet, was cast as the staid, lovelorn Martine.

The role of the Swedish General Lorens Löwenhielm, the former suitor of Martine, was accepted by Jarl Kulle and the Swedish Court Lady by Bibi Andersson. Both had achieved international recognition as two of Ingmar Bergman's favorite actors, appearing in many of his films.[12][13]

The group of elderly villagers was composed of Danish actors, many of whom were well known for their roles in the films of Carl Theodor Dreyer. These included Lisbeth Movin as the Old Widow, Preben Lerdorff Rye as the Captain, Axel Strøbye as the Driver, Bendt Rothe as Old Nielsen and Ebbe Rode as Christopher.

The popular Danish actress Ghita Nørby was cast as the film's narrator. Although production consultants complained to Axel that the use of a narrator was too old-fashioned, Axel was adamant about using one. He said it was not about being old-fashioned but only about the need: "If there is need for a narrator, then one uses one."[7]

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The seven-course menu in the film consisted of:

Release

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Reception

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Upon its release in 1987, Babette's Feast received positive reviews.[15] The film won the 1987 Best Foreign Language Film at the Academy Awards.[16] It also received the BAFTA Film Award for Best Foreign Language Film. In Denmark, it won both the Bodil and Robert awards for Best Danish Film of the Year. The film was nominated and/or won several other awards including a Golden Globe nomination, the Grand Prix (Belgian Film Critics Association) award and a Cannes Film Festival special prize.

The film maintained a 97% "Fresh" rating as of 2024 on Rotten Tomatoes based on 34 reviews, and an average score of 8.5/10. The site's consensus is; "Charming and melancholy, Babette's Feast is a timeless Scandinavian treat that explores the complex relationships between people, beliefs, and what it means to be an artist."[17] The film also has a weighted average score of 78 out of 100 at Metacritic based on reviews from 18 critics, indicating "generally favorable reviews".[18] After the film's release, several restaurants offered recreations of the film's menu.[19]

The movie is a favorite of Alton Brown,[20] Pope Francis,[21] Rowan Williams,[22] Richard Gere,[23] and Stanley Tucci.[24] The film was included by the Vatican in a list of important films compiled in 1995, under the category of "Religion".[25]

Home video

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Babette's Feast was released on DVD by MGM on January 23, 2001, presented in its original 1.85:1 widescreen aspect ratio. The only special feature was the original theatrical trailer.[26]

On July 23, 2013, the film was released by The Criterion Collection on DVD and Blu-ray. The Blu-ray has a new, restored high-definition digital transfer, and features new video interviews with star Stéphane Audran, sociologist Priscilla Parkhurst Ferguson, and a 1995 documentary about author Karen Blixen, as well as a booklet featuring an essay by film scholar Mark Le Fanu and Dinesen's 1950 story.[27]

American remake

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In December 2019, it was announced that Alexander Payne had been asked to direct an American remake of the film.[28][29][30][31] Payne's version was planned to be set in Minnesota.[32][33]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Babettes gæstebud (Babette's Feast) at Box Office Mojo
  2. ^ "Babette's gæstebud". Danish Film Institute.
  3. ^ "Festival de Cannes: Babette's Feast". festival-cannes.com. Archived from the original on 2012-10-03. Retrieved 2009-07-20.
  4. ^ Karen Blixen, Anecdotes of Destiny and Ehrengard, "The Diver," "Babette's Feast," "Tempests," "The Immortal Story," "The Ring" (New York: Random House; London: Michael Joseph, 1958); Skæbne-Anekdoter (Copenhagen: Gyldendal, 1960)
  5. ^ Mørch, Karin, Gabriel's Gæstebud: Portrait af en Filmmager, Copenhagen: Gyldendal, (2008) p.403
  6. ^ Nielsen, Bent (30 September 2008). "Kirken på kanten synger på sidste vers" [Church on the edge sings the last verse]. Kristeligt Dagblad. Archived from the original on 17 October 2012.
  7. ^ a b c (Mørch 2008, p. 403) translated from "Der er meget, der fungerer på skrift, men når det blive overført til billeder, giver det slet ikke samme indtryk eller følelse. Alle de ændringer, jeg foretog, gjorde jeg faktisk for at være tro mod Karen Blixens."
  8. ^ a b (Mørch 2008, p. 410)
  9. ^ (Mørch 2008, p. 411)
  10. ^ (Mørch 2008, p. 412)
  11. ^ Piil, Morten, Bodil Kjer Danske Filmskuespillere, Gyldendal, (2001), pp 230–235
  12. ^ "Jarl Kulle" Archived 2009-10-07 at the Wayback Machine, Filmography, Ingmar Bergman Foundation, ingmarbergman.se, retrieved 28-05-2009
  13. ^ "Bibi Andersson" Archived 2009-10-07 at the Wayback Machine, Filmography, Ingmar Bergman Foundation, ingmarbergman.se, retrieved 28-05-2009
  14. ^ Heiter, Celeste (2012). A Culinary Homage to Babette's Feast. Love Bites: Romantic Dinners for Two. lovebitescookbooks.com. p. 1. Retrieved October 6, 2014.
  15. ^ Wigley, Samuel (April 3, 2014). "Then and now: Babette's Feast reviewed". Film Forever. British Film Institute. Retrieved October 6, 2014.
  16. ^ "The 60th Academy Awards (1988) Nominees and Winners". Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Retrieved August 16, 2015.
  17. ^ "Babettes Gaestebud (Babette's Feast) (1987)". Rotten Tomatoes. Flixster IOnc. Retrieved March 4, 2016.
  18. ^ "Babette's Feast". Metacritic. CBS Interactive. Retrieved February 22, 2024.
  19. ^ Fabricant, Florence (March 2, 1988). "In 'Babette,' A Great Feast For the Palate And the Eye". The New York Times. Retrieved March 4, 2016.
  20. ^ Archived at Ghostarchive and the Wayback Machine: "Alton Brown Rigorously Reviews Spicy Wings | Hot Ones". YouTube. 26 April 2018.
  21. ^ "Why does Pope Francis want us to watch the movie "Babette's Feast"?". Aleteia. November 21, 2016.
  22. ^ "The Dark Materials debate: Life, God, the universe". The Daily Telegraph. March 17, 2004.
  23. ^ "Richard Gere's Five Favorite Films". Rotten Tomatoes. Flixster IOnc. Retrieved February 22, 2024.
  24. ^ "Tucci's Feast: Food-loving star Stanley Tucci on the culinary film that makes him moan". Letterboxd. April 19, 2023. Retrieved February 22, 2024.
  25. ^ "Vatican Best Films List". Official website of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Archived from the original on 2012-04-22. Retrieved 2012-04-20.
  26. ^ "Babette's Feast". DVD Talk. Retrieved February 22, 2024.
  27. ^ "Babette's Feast". The Criterion Collection. Retrieved February 22, 2024.
  28. ^ Lattanzio, Ryan (2 December 2019). "Alexander Payne Rebounds From Cancelled Netflix Project With 'Babette's Feast' Remake". IndieWire. Retrieved 24 July 2020.
  29. ^ Mike Fleming Jr. (2 December 2019). "Alexander Payne Takes On Reimagining Of 'Babette's Feast'". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 24 July 2020.
  30. ^ Gemmill, Allie (2 December 2019). "'Downsizing' Director Alexander Payne to Direct New Take on 'Babette's Feast'". Collider. Retrieved 24 July 2020.
  31. ^ Mike Fleming Jr. (2 December 2019). "Alexander Payne Takes On Reimagining Of 'Babette's Feast'". Yahoo! Sports. Retrieved 24 July 2020.
  32. ^ Lee Svitak Dean (11 December 2019). "Minnesota will be the setting for remake of Oscar-winning film 'Babette's Feast'". Star Tribune. Retrieved 24 July 2020.
  33. ^ Sasvari, Joanne (18 February 2020). "Salut!: Babette's stuffed quail a French decadence worth recreating". Vancouver Sun. Retrieved 24 July 2020.

Sources

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Further reading

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