The French know food. In tonight’s films they use that savoir faire to give children a safer meal, and in a touching, Oscar-winning drama, remind two elderly sisters that it’s OK to live a little.

In Food Beware, the mayor of a small French village resolves to make the school’s lunch menu organic as a response to growing concerns over the use of pesticides and other agribusiness practices. Incorporating the testimony of farmers, politicians, health-care workers, and parents, the film explores the notion that our food may be responsible for a general rise in cancer rates, infertility, and other health problems. (112 mins., video)

In Babette’s Feast, the aging daughters of a Danish minister rekindle their appreciation for life’s simple pleasures with a spectacular feast prepared by their Parisian housekeeper. Winner of an Oscar for Best Foreign Film, it’s the perfect reminder of the pleasures brought to us all by lovingly prepared food. (102 mins., 35mm)

Babette’s Feast begins at 8:50 PM.

Now What?*
After Food Beware, you can find out how to get started in changing your own food habits with a brief presentation from Local Matters. The presentation will offer ideas about how you can take immediate action on specific issues related to Food Beware. Local Matters is a central Ohio not-for-profit that works to promote good nutrition, increase access to healthy, delicious local foods, and advocate for more equitable food policy.

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