Delicious (2021), directed by Eric Besnard

An enormous divide between rich and poor in 18th century France has caused hunger and unrest. Former baker Pierre Manceron has been elevated above his humble background to become chef in the regional household of the gourmand Duke of Chamfort. But he is ambitious and wants to create his own recipes, not just cook to the Duke’s orders and this clash puts him out of favour and out of work. With his teenage son, Pierre returns to his childhood home in the middle of nowhere – a rundown inn that serves as a wayside stop for travellers to and from Paris. When jam maker Louise arrives and demands to be taken on as an apprentice, Pierre regains his interest in innovative cooking. Her smart ideas offer a chance of a bright future for the inn and its inhabitants, but her dark past and dangerous secrets could lead them to disaster. This entertaining tale of the invention of restaurants is set in the early days of the French Revolution and makes some serious political points about the dangers of inequality. It is done with a light touch, including some very funny jokes and superb subtitling. The cast is appealing and the setting and costumes enhance the wholly delicious experience.