The Irish Film Institute’s Bigger Picture is a must-see event every month in the fair city of film. They pick some of the island’s best and brightest (and me), so that they can pick out some of their favourite films to screen and celebrate. Through these selections, and the introductions from their guests, the IFI have assembled an impressive, diverse and delightful film canon of their very own.
On Wednesday 18th June at 6.30pm, Film In Dublin partner with Sian Conway at the IFI to present an all-time crowd-pleasing visual delight: Stanley Tucci’s 90s sleeper, Big Night.
Everyone’s favourite Italian chef, writer, and actor Stanley Tucci made his debut in the big chair, co-directing alongside Campbell Scott for this story of two brothers who emigrate from Italy to the US and decide to open an Italian restaurant. Combining their skills in cheffing and front of house charm, the two do everything to keep the place afloat, including bringing in celebrated jazz musician Louis Prima.
With an all-star cast, including Isabella Rossellini, Minnie Driver, Ian Holm and more, a moving mambo soundtrack and some of the most delicious looking food ever committed to screen, Big Night remains an underseen banger. And appropriately, the IFI Cafe will offer a special menu on the night to accompany the film. Before the show, the audience can sample an Italian food feast in IFI Café Bar, with Meal Deal tickets available to purchase in-person or by calling 01 679 3477 at the Box Office.
Presenting the film on the (big) night will be food writer and blogger Sian Conway. In 2023, she achieved a significant milestone by winning the award for Best Instagram/TikTok at the Irish Food Writing Awards for her iconic work with Char Food Guide. Her unique approach combines humor, creativity, and a deep appreciation for culinary experiences, allowing her to connect with audiences on multiple levels, now a freelancer, Conway continues to provide passion and insights on everything from butter to the big screen.
We’re cooking up even more in the kitchen between Sian and ourselves soon…
In the meantime, she provided us with an idea of why she picked this particular film:
Big Night (1996) has a *big place* in my heart. As a film, it’s a joy to watch over and over again, like a good plate of pasta. You never really tire of it. Thematically, it delivers a lot without ever feeling dense: the struggles of running a small business, of cultural identity, of food appreciation, of family. Two Italian brothers, one consumed by his culinary passion and pride; the other, trying to keep the business afloat, willing to take a chance on a crazy marketing whim.
You can’t help but salivate when you watch this film. You can’t help but wish for the brothers to succeed, for the people of the town to see past Pascal’s showiness and just appreciate some good Italian dishes straight from the source for the love of God! The cast is fantastic, it passes the Bechdel test by the skin of its teeth and every watch reminds me of what hospitality means. It’s not about money — though unfortunately that’s what decides who can survive in this current day and age; it’s about heart and what feeds the soul.
Big Night is about looking after those who show out to your table, regardless of who they are or how many. It’s about how we speak to one another without saying a word — through the chopping of knives, the sneaky addition of more salt to a boiling pot or the plate of eggs silently placed in front of you after some bad news. It’s a film that’s as comforting as it is still relevant.
Tickets for the IFI Bigger Picture screening of Big Night are available now from their website and the IFI Box Office.