Main Dish and Jane Eyre 2011

The Film: Jane Eyre, the 2011 adaptation

The Plot: An young governess and orphan named Jane Eyre is employed by an intriguing and complex man known as Mr. Rochester. Both are broken hearted people who have a painful past of love lost. Jane is intelligence, strong willed, and independent. Her desire to make an honest way in the world dominates her thinking but as she and Rochester fall in love, secrets threaten to destroy their long awaited happiness.

The Entree: Cornish Game Hen with Garlic and Rosemary. In honor of the countryside that surrounds Rochester's estate, some traditional Cornish Game Hen is in order. Although the poultry used and recipe was created in America there is just something very English about the seasonings. Rochester appeared to live off the land and his rugged handsome looks seem to suggest that his lifestyle contributed to them. Jane has an earthly beauty and nature which shows her connection to what is real. This entree promises a good hearty meal packed with protein and enough spices to melt together with butter for a satisfied stomach. When I think of the movie it is easy to imagine Jane and the kitchen staff preparing this meal for Rochester in old wooden ovens.

Appetizer and Becoming Jane

The Film: Becoming Jane (2007) a UK film about the life of Jane Austen

The Plot: A 20 year old aspiring writer named Jane Austen meets a young lawyer named Thomas Lefroy, they begin a romance that later influences her famous works. Years later when Lefroy is the Chief Justice of Ireland, his encounter with an older Jane, is bittersweet and tragic as his own daughter Jane watched Austen at a reading. However, if Jane and Thomas had not parted they may not have become the people they did later in life.

The Appetizer: A medley of roasted roots served with Scottish malt whiskey mixed with Coca-Cola. Add with cheddar for more flavor.

James McAvoy and Becoming Jane: The Trailer

Get ready for some tears and the irresisitably sweet face of James McAvoy and doe eyes of Anne Hathaway.

Appetizer and Fish Tank: The Trailer

Make sure to have your Fish and Chips ready before the movie starts. Also a good idea to have some buttered popcorn available if the dish is not ready in time.

Appetizer and Fish Tank

 

The Film: Fish Tank (2008) a UK independent film from Andrea Arnold

The Plot: A 15 year old girl named Mia living in a council flat with her single mother and younger foul mouth sister has no future. Mia thinks her future is in hip hop dancing that she is terrible at. When her mother brings homes a good looking new Irish boyfriend in  his late 20's/early 30's named Connor, Mia develops an unusual bond with him. It seems like the father figure she needs until she begins seeing a local boy in town. Jealousy emerges as does the relationship sours between Connor and Mia.

The Appetizer: Good old British fish and chips with some ale or root beer with ice. Can be found at any authentic British pub in the area, even if outside the UK. Chip (fries) best eaten with malt vinegar, sea salt, and ketchup. Make sure to have enough tartar source with your fried fish. Served in a basket.

James McAvoy

For those of you unfamiliar with James McAvoy, he was in Atonement, Becoming Jane and Penelope before X-Men: First Class. He is Scottish and has been acting for over 10 years. McAvoy was the perfect choice to play a younger version of Sir Patrick Stewart's Professor X. His talent matched Stewart as does his charisma.

Foreign Film for Foodies: Inspired by Michael Fassbender and James McAvoy

These two European actors were favorites of mine before they teamed up for X-Men: First Class in June 2011. Needless to say, I found my self discussing their work on that film and others over dinner at specific restaurants in San Francisco. Why? I was choosing the cuisine because it felt like the best fit and atmosphere to talk about these thespian masters. So ... one night I came home and launched this blog! I also want to thank the Fassy + McAvoy Facebook Fan Club and its international members for supporting this creative venture with enthusiasm!