5 ways to bring a bit of French magic to your next TV night
What better way to enjoy downtime with your loved ones, than with a plateful of LU biscuits and a side of complementary French entertainment?
Even though you may argue over the remote, you’ve probably found that movie nights and boxset marathons are better with the people you love. Away from the constant rush of modern life, those small moments together become increasingly precious – even if it’s just enjoying a cup of tea and a couple of LU biscuits while watching some daytime telly. If you and your loved ones are keen entertainment fans, here are LU’s five favourite ways to bring a French twist to your next night in.
1. Explore the origins of the French New Wave
The French New Wave is a film genre that emerged in France in the late 1950s as a direct rejection of big studio Hollywood films and their easy-to-follow narratives. The movement gave directors full creative control over their work, which led to a rise in low-budget, experimental filmmaking. From crime dramas like Shoot the Piano Player (1960) to the romantic triangle of Jules and Jim (1962), it’s certainly worth exploring this pivotal era in film history, as a wide range of the New Wave films produced between the late 1950s and early 1970s still influence film-makers today.
2. Re-create France’s Open Air Cinema Festival in your garden
Every summer, thousands of film fans flock to the greens of the Parc de la Villette in Paris to enjoy free film screenings at the Open Air Cinema Festival. So, why not re-create the event in your own back garden? You can craft a makeshift cinema screen by hanging a large white sheet from a washing line, with weights attached at the bottom to keep it still. Then all you’ll need is a basic projector and a laptop, or other streaming device, to watch your favourite films under the stars.
3. Sit back and relax with LU biscuits
Movie nights are always better when you’re curled up on the sofa in your favourite pyjamas, drinking a hot beverage. Of course, this calls for an accompanying biscuit, and LU biscuits are perfect for dunking. Le Petit Ganache softens to reveal a surprising choco-hazelnut centre, while Le Petit Beurre is great for adding a hint of buttery deliciousness to your cuppa. Plus, sharing that moment with your loved ones is sure to make your evening feel even warmer.
4. Take a culinary tour through France
Sometimes there’s nothing more soothing than watching a cookery show that takes you on a culinary adventure. There’s no shortage of chefs who love French cuisine, so settle down with a series set in France. You’ll no doubt be able to enjoy a whole host of classic French recipes, from croque monsieur to coq au vin, all served against a backdrop of stunning countryside views. Great for both foodies and travel lovers, you might be inspired to try a bit of French cooking yourself, or even take the plunge and book that trip you’ve been craving.
5. Immerse yourself in a fantastical version of Paris
Fancy a night in Paris? From the Golden Age of Hollywood through to today’s streaming services, TV and filmmakers have fallen in love with the magic of the city, so you won’t be hard pushed to find a whimsical depiction or two to lose yourself in. There are plenty of options for musical fans, from the Oscar-winning musical comedy An American in Paris (1951) to the iconic romantic drama Moulin Rouge! (2001). And of course, because Paris is known as the “City of Love”, it has also been the setting for many a great French romance, including Amélie (2001) and Paris, je t’aime (2006).
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