Movie Night Menus

February 1, 2017

Sibling coauthors (The New Cocktail Hour) Tenaya (writing, Saint Joseph's Univ.; The Di Bruni Bros. House of Cheese) and Andre (cocktail columnist & restaurant critic, Isthmus magazine) Darlington present ideas for 30 movie parties cohosted with Turner Classic Movies in this enchanting volume. Proceeding in chronological order, from 1930's The Divorcee to 1987's Moonstruck, the authors suggest period- or film-specific menus, decor, costumes, and, of course, cocktails to coordinate with each film, all of which were selected for their eating and drinking scenes. The Darlingtons' love of classic films is apparent throughout, and their suggestions for apparel and libations go beyond the predictable (e.g., "boozy milkshakes" to accompany a screening of American Graffiti, snazzy bathrobes instead of the expected 1930s evening wear for The Thin Man). The menus often are inspired, but the cocktails shine. Clearly, the siblings love a good drink. Tips on how to prepare, mix, and serve them are clear and helpful, as are recipe "hacks" such as an even simpler simple syrup and puff-pastry shortcuts. "While You Were Watching" segments reveal off-camera shenanigans and provide historical context. VERDICT This well-designed book is perfect for cinephiles and posh party planners of all ages.--Liz French, Library Journal

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