by Cecelia Martinez

Director Nora Ephron’s adaptation of two bestselling memoirs: Julia Child’s My Life in France and Julie Powell’s Julie & Julia. Although separated by time and space, the two women have much in common and both find their true selves through food. Meryl Streep is perfectly cast as Child, emulating the famous cook’s voice, mannerisms and energy so precisely it’s easy to forget her true identity (which proves yet again that she’s one of the best—if not the best—working actresses today). Amy Adams does an admirable job as a government drone on a journey of self-discovery, and Stanley Tucci is equally convincing as Child’s loving, supportive husband. There are several funny moments, and the film is so enjoyable it’s over just as soon as it’s begun. Much more than a chick flick, Julie & Julia will appeal to a widely diverse audience.

In theaters December 12.