Watch Garlic Is As Good As Ten Mothers

Garlic Is As Good As Ten Mothers is a 1980 documentary film directed by Les Blank. The movie explores the cultural and culinary importance of garlic and its unique place in American cuisine. Shot in a lighthearted and entertaining format, the film features interviews with garlic lovers, chefs, farmers, and historians. The movie starts with a prologue that sets the tone for the entire film. Les Blank introduces us to a group of people who love garlic so much that they eat it raw, sprinkled on popcorn or sliced over ice cream. He then takes us on a journey across the United States to explore the history, myths, and medicinal properties of garlic.

Through various interviews with chefs, we learn about the transformative nature of garlic in cooking. Anzonini Del Puerto, a renowned Italian chef, shares her recipes for garlic-infused dishes such as garlic pasta and chicken with 40 cloves of garlic. Del Puerto talks about the versatility of garlic, and how it can be used to season meat, vegetables, and sauces. Other chefs describe how garlic is used in international cuisines, from Korean kimchi to Indian curries.

The movie also explores the biology and medicinal properties of garlic. Dr. Earl Mindell, a nutritionist, explains the health benefits of garlic such as its ability to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. The film goes on to showcase the various forms of garlic, from fresh bulbs to powders and extracts, and their respective uses.

Throughout the film, Blank intercuts scenes of farmers planting and harvesting garlic with interviews with growers who describe the best growing conditions and varieties of garlic. We learn about the history of garlic through interviews with historians, such as playwright and garlic aficionado, Sam Shepard.

One of the most captivating aspects of Garlic Is As Good As Ten Mothers is the focus on garlic festivals. Blank takes us to Gilroy, California, which is known as the Garlic Capital of the World. We see huge crowds of people, dressed in garlic costumes and tasting garlic-flavored ice cream. The festival showcases garlic in all its culinary forms, from garlic bread to garlic-infused olive oil.

The film's soundtrack is an eclectic mix of music, from Middle Eastern to Southern blues. The music enhances the film's celebratory and festive tone.

In terms of its filmmaking style, Garlic Is As Good As Ten Mothers is full of colorful and lively scenes. Blank captures the essence of garlic and its cultural significance through his documentary style, which is reminiscent of cinéma vérité. The spontaneous interviews with garlic enthusiasts and the behind-the-scenes footage of chefs and garlic growers create a sense of realism and authenticity.

Overall, Garlic Is As Good As Ten Mothers is a mesmerizing documentary film that explores the cultural significance of garlic in America. The movie is a vibrant and entertaining tribute to this beloved allium, offering insight into its culinary and medicinal importance. Les Blank's film underscores the joy and passion that people have for garlic, demonstrating how it has become an integral part of American cuisine.