Top 5 movies to inspire a trip to Europe. Joanie’s European wanderlust movie night features vintage classics and new movies that will indulge your love of all things European.
Grand Budapest Hotel
Filmed entirely on location in Germany the Grand Budapest Hotel is a delicious multi-layered confection for the eyes, delicious enough to stock the shelves of Mendls (the pastel coloured bakery perfection featured in the film). Set in the 1930s the Grand Budapest Hotel is a popular European ski resort, supervised by purple clad Lothario concierge Gustave H, who eagerly tends to the needs of the dowager residents. Zero, a junior lobby boy, becomes Gustave's trusted friend and protégé. When one dowager lady (Tilda Swinton) dies leaving Gustave a priceless painting, the adventure unfolds… the family revolts, there’s love, murder, prison breaks a clandestine order and sumptuous cakes. Wes Anderson at his best.
Roman holiday
A European fairytale romance starring everyone’s favourite, Audrey Hepburn. Overwhelmed by her suffocating schedule European Princess Ann (Audrey Hepburn) cuts loose for a night in Rome, Italy. When a sleeping pill kicks in from her doctor she falls fast asleep on a bench and is discovered by American reporter Joe Bradley (Gregory Peck) who whisks her off to his apartment for safety. The next day at work Joe finds out the Princess’ real identity and makes a bet with his editor that he can bag an exclusive interview. Romance soon blossoms… expect glorious shots of Rome, pretty dresses, love and exciting classic Italian style Vespa rides.
The Talented Mr Ripley
Sun-drenched 1950s Italy, azure waters, idyllic landscapes, the young and carefree Romeo Dickie Greenleaf (Jude Law) lives with expatriate girlfriend Marge (Gwyneth Paltrow) and has carved out a lifestyle that he loves. When Dickie’s father asks Tom Ripley (Matt Damon) to sail from America to put a stop to his son’s playboy lifestyle there’s no extremes he won’t go to. Ripley befriends Dickie and Marge and gets a taste of what it’s like to live like Dickie Greenleaf, there’s deceit, drama, double-crossing, murder and stolen identities galore.
To Catch a Thief
Set against the breathtaking Riviera, Notorious cat burglar John Robie played by Cary Grant has retired to tend vineyards on the French Riviera. When a series of robberies is committed in his renowned style, John Robie must clear his name. Equipped with a list of individuals who own the most luxurious jewels currently in the area, John begins following the first owner, young Francie played by the stunning Grace Kelly. When Francie’s jewels are stolen she suspects John, obliterating their tempestuous romance. The adventure begins as John goes on the run to catch the thief and clear his own name. To Catch a Thief is a vintage classic and Grace Kelly's style is impeccable.
Magic in the Moonlight
Set in the roaring 1920s on the enchanting Côte d'Azur magician Stanley Crawford (played by Colin Firth) enjoys widespread acclaim as his stage persona Chinese conjurer Wei Ling Soo.
Stanley scorns claims by phony spiritualists that they can perform real magic. Stanley is called to the Côte d'Azur mansion of the Catledge family to expose a young medium named Sophie (Emma Stone) who claims she has a genuine magical ability.
Stanley Crawford is both arrogant and talented, his certain speculation is left wavering as he analyses the evidence that Sophie's gifts may be real. Expect Woody Allen dry wit, romance, hilarious moments and stylish cinematography.
Joanie x
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