Hulu is offering an enticing selection of films this weekend, featuring notable titles like Julie & Julia and Last Holiday. These movies, available from November 21 to 23, 2023, cater to diverse tastes, ranging from culinary inspiration to heartfelt drama.
Julie & Julia: A Culinary Journey
In the delightful film Julie & Julia, directed by Nora Ephron, Meryl Streep portrays the iconic chef Julia Child. The narrative intertwines the lives of Child and a struggling New Yorker named Julie Powell, played by Amy Adams. Powell, feeling lost in her life after the 9/11 attacks, turns to Child’s renowned cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking, for solace and inspiration.
As Julie embarks on a year-long challenge to cook all 524 recipes from the book, the film delves into Child’s own journey, highlighting her determination to succeed as a chef later in life. The dual narrative creates a rich exploration of both women’s lives, showcasing their dreams and personal struggles. Streep’s performance transcends caricature, revealing the complexities of Child’s character—filled with joy, ambition, and vulnerability.
Last Holiday: A Heartwarming Escape
Another must-see this weekend is Last Holiday, featuring Queen Latifah in one of her most celebrated roles. The film follows the story of Georgia Byrd, a shy saleswoman who receives devastating news about her health, prompting her to cash in her life savings for a final getaway to a luxurious mountain resort in the Czech Republic.
This light-hearted narrative, a loose remake of the 1950 British film of the same name, focuses on Georgia’s journey of self-discovery and fulfillment of her bucket list. Despite the serious premise, the film radiates warmth and humor as Georgia navigates her new reality, impressing the wealthy guests at the resort and finding romance along the way. Latifah’s portrayal resonates with audiences, showcasing her ability to balance both comedy and gravitas.
Bee Season: A Family’s Struggles
Lastly, Bee Season offers a poignant look at familial dynamics through the lens of competitive spelling bees. Richard Gere stars as Saul, a father who becomes obsessed with his daughter Eliza’s (played by Flora Cross) success in spelling competitions. His fixation leads to neglecting the emotional needs of his wife, Miriam (played by Juliette Binoche), and son, Aaron (played by Max Minghella), creating tension within their already fractured family.
The film explores themes of ambition, love, and the impact of parental pressure, presenting a nuanced portrayal of each character’s flaws and desires. Gere’s performance as a father blinded by ambition adds depth to the story, making it a compelling watch for anyone interested in human relationships and personal growth.
These three films represent just a fraction of the engaging content available to Hulu subscribers this weekend. Whether you are in the mood for culinary inspiration, a heartwarming escape, or a deep dive into family dynamics, there is something for everyone to enjoy during this holiday season.
