By Chris Kavan - 09/01/10 at 03:27 PM CT
You don't have to enjoy alcohol to appreciate this list, but it may help. Films teach us many things, and one of those is how a good drink can shape a character or a moment. So, in honor of my day off work, I though I'd kick back, relax and enjoy these tasty treats (remember, enjoy in moderation!)
1) James Bond - Vodka Martini, shaken not stirred - As a connoisseur of fine vodka myself, it should come as no surprise that the super spy's classic drink would be top on my list. Simple, elegant, classic and very smooth - oh, and chilled - as cold as you can get - it helped to define the character and popularized the drink.
2) The Big Lebowski - White Russians aka Caucasians - The Dude definitely abides, and he does so by downing a number of these concoctions during the course of the film. Surprise, surprise this drink also features vodka! Also, Kahlua (or some coffee liquor) and cream (half and half, nondairy creamer - powdered optional or even milk) mix it and enjoy. If you're feeling adventurous, do your best to keep up with the dude - recreational drug use optional.
3) Groundhog Day - Sweet Vermouth on the Rocks with a Twist - Poor Bill Murray having to relive the same day over and over and having to drink this drink over and over. His reaction to the first drink is priceless and subsequent efforts show that it will never be his favorite drink. Can't say I've ever had the itch to try this one based on the reaction, but I guess if I had to relive an endless loup to impress a woman, I might give it a try too.
4) Scrooged - Highball - Technically a highball is not a drink in of itself, but a class of drink. Popular highballs include Scotch and soda, Seven and Seven, Jack and Coke, Gin and Tonic, etc. Anyway, this scene is totally great in Scrooged as Bill Murray (once again!) orders this and gets an eyeball instead of a highball. Classic.
5) Silence of the Lambs - A nice Chianti - Even though Anthony Hopkins has a unique pronunciation of this fine wine, this red Tuscan wine would fit well with many meals... not just liver and fava beans. Those namby pamby Sideways guys may have had more wine, but not like this.
So, who else has a favorite movie drink? I know there are plenty of classic films that could fit, but these are most memorable to me. What else should I raise my glass to?
