Skrzydełko czy nóżka / L’aile ou la cuisse (1976)

„Gastronomic Grandeur / L’aile ou la cuisse (1976)”

In the exquisite realm of French culinary finesse, Charles Duchemin (played by Louis De Funes) emerges as a distinguished maestro at the ripe age of 60. Revered by both the proprietors of opulent dining establishments and the overseers of unassuming roadside bistros, Duchemin commands a stature that transcends the ordinary bounds of gastronomy. His renown extends far beyond the pages of gastronomic guides to include televised broadcasts, scholarly treatises, and eloquent disquisitions, culminating in a unanimous invitation from the esteemed French Academy.

Yearning for a well-deserved retirement, Charles Duchemin harbors the intent to bequeath his gastronomic legacy to his progeny, Pierre. Yet, fate weaves an alternative narrative. Pierre, entrenched in the world of circus arts, conceals his passion from his illustrious father. The interplay of clashing aspirations sets the stage for a delightful exploration of generational disparities, as Charles envisions a seamless transition of his culinary empire to the next Duchemin, while Pierre dances on the tightrope of his circus dreams, hidden from his father’s discerning eyes.

Beneath the familial saga, a gastronomic rivalry simmers, adding a piquant flavor to the narrative. Jean Tricatel, portrayed by Julien Guiomar, emerges as Duchemin’s principal adversary. Tricatel, the magnate 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 dominion. The stage is set for a culinary showdown in the televised program „Wszystkie chwyty dozwolone.”

As the narrative unfurls, the film takes unexpected twists, weaving a tapestry of comedic mishaps and dramatic revelations. Charles Duchemin’s quest to gather evidence against the „fast-food monarch” for the TV program becomes a mission fraught with both culinary and personal challenges. The collision of traditional gastronomy with the rapidly evolving world of fast food engenders a sequence of amusing encounters and unforeseen consequences.

Tragedy befalls Charles Duchemin when, in a capricious turn of events, he not only uncovers his son’s clandestine passion for the circus but also loses his sense of taste after partaking in a meal at one of Tricatel’s establishments. The comedic elements take on a poignant hue, as the protagonist grapples with both personal and professional setbacks. The film adeptly juggles humor with moments of introspection, offering a nuanced exploration of the intricate dynamics within familial relationships and the ever-shifting palate of culinary preferences.

In the grand denouement, the culinary duel between Duchemin and Tricatel unfolds on the televised stage. The clash of culinary ideologies, tradition versus fast food, serves as a metaphor for the broader societal transformations occurring in France during the era. The film ingeniously entwines gastronomic passion with societal commentary, fashioning a narrative that is both rich and layered.

In summation, „Gastronomic Grandeur / L’aile ou la cuisse” transcends its role as a comedic foray into culinary clashes and generational variances; it stands as a multifaceted tale that delves into the intricacies of family bonds, the evolving gastronomic landscape, and societal shifts. Louis De Funes delivers a stellar portrayal of Charles Duchemin, infusing the character with a harmonious blend of humor, vulnerability, and resilience. Directed by Claude Zidi, the film remains an enduring cinematic masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds and resonates with the nuances of the human experience.