Leff’s July picks: Tossed salads and scrambled eggs

You’ll want to pour yourself a glass of wine before you check out our picks this month—we’re reading about French bistros and revisiting a 90’s sitcom full of wine-snob jokes. And this month’s movie pick might require a glass of recovery wine.

Bottoms up!

From Rachel, editorial associate:

“The bistro bar is a place of exchange, of conversation, a way of life.” The romantic (and food and wine and conversation lover) in me was sad when reading this piece. I like knowing there are still places that offer a refuge from grab-and-go lunches, and mindless small talk. Further, it’s becoming increasingly rare for people from different socioeconomic backgrounds to co-mingle without tension or force. But, like many things (family time, reading a book, non-Facebook friendships, having a moment to yourself), the Parisian bistro is feeling the effects of evolving technology and on-demand food delivery. One bistro owner was so incensed by the diminishing importance of the bistro that he launched a campaign to obtain Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage status for the “art de vivre,” or the art of living. “The ultimate goal is for younger generations to continue the tradition and for new bistrotiers to keep the art de vivre and original spirit of the bistro alive.” I’ll drink to that.

 

From David, editorial associate:

I recently got out and saw First Reformed, which was written and directed by the legendary Paul Schrader, the man who penned the screenplays for Taxi Driver and Raging Bull and also directed the amazing remake of Cat People. The story of a minister suffering a crisis of faith, First Reformed is seemingly inspired by classics like Bergman’s Winter Light and Bresson’s Diary of a Country Priest, but with distinctly 21st-century concerns, including environmental degradation, suicide bombings, and information overload. Steadily paced and eerily quiet, this movie provides a transcendent experience—and the awesome soundtrack by Lustmord rounds out the experience.

 

From Alia, accounts and strategy director:

There’s talk of a Frasier reboot, so my ongoing endorsement for the original show finally feels timely. I’ve always been a fan of the 90’s sitcom; my love of Frasier  started when I was sneaking episodes as a precocious seven-year-old, and I still watch it regularly now. The writing is excellent; the comedy classic; and the acting remarkable. The intergenerational conflict between father and sons adds a layer of light and often hilarious tension, with a handful of touching moments that give the show just enough weight. I could go on for a while (just ask my friends) but I won’t—just give it a watch. Also, read this fitting tribute to a beloved actor who brought the role of the titular character’s father to life.