Provence is likely the passionate dream of any lover of French culture. A bohemian paradise infused with the fragrance of fresh herbs—thyme, sage, basil, rosemary, oregano—and endless fields of lavender. An immeasurable freedom that blooms in violet. The essence of life, bottled in old wines, with the older vintages being more intense and aromatic, perfectly accompanying the region’s culinary delights. The Mistral wind, always eager to play the storyteller, whispers secrets that vast vineyards have hidden among their leaves and grapes. That’s what a good year in Provence truly means!
And if two people were to ever capture the joy of living in Provence in a story, those two would be Ridley Scott and Peter Mayle. One would paint the picture with words, and the other—with images.
A GOOD YEAR – THE MOVIE
“A Good Year”—the film, sprinkled with the charm, accent, and presence of Russell Crowe and Marion Cotillard—becomes, once watched, a continuous reverie. The wines—whether from real or imagined varieties—the sun-kissed vineyard, the song of the place that holds you there without you even realizing it, the poetry of it all, wrapping you up and filling you with serenity, transporting you again and again with the same force. All these elements blend together in an unexpected way, like a magical recipe, creating a sublime feeling that any viewer would want to keep with them. Or at the very least, experience it just once in a lifetime.
A GOOD YEAR – THE BOOK
The book “A Good Year” followed an unusual trajectory: it was written with the intention of being adapted into a film, stemming from a conversation between Peter Mayle and Ridley Scott. In fact, the story of Max Skinner, the protagonist in the film, is strikingly similar to that of the writer Peter Mayle himself, who developed such a deep love for Provence that he wanted to start a new life there. His literature became famous precisely because of this passion, captured in humorous and delightful stories that describe his adventures in the French countryside. In truth, any of Peter Mayle’s books is nothing less than a delightful French-flavored tale, guaranteed to lift anyone’s spirits.
Perhaps not so coincidentally, you might find it amusing to learn that Peter Mayle and director Ridley Scott were actually neighbors in Provence. So, if you ever find yourself missing Provence, or if you simply want to feel good, watch—or read—A Good Year. And make sure you have a glass of wine by your side!
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