Escape to America’s Dairyland: Dinner & a Movie
Never been to the Midwest? You don’t know what you’re missing. Until you can safely travel, here’s the next best thing. Dinner and a movie set in Wisconsin, or starring one of our own.
A Virtual Midwest Road Trip
Cheese, beer and good cheer! What’s not to love about Wisconsin? Let’s start with Tommy Boy, starring Madison native, Chris Farley and David Spade. The opening scene is shot at Farley’s alma mater, Marquette University. My favorite scene is the road trip, which happens to hit every Midwest city I’ve ever lived in. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry and laugh some more. Enjoy a Cluck Bucket of Chicken with this one, if you can find it.
Classic Comedies with Wisconsin Ties
Ever wish you could go back to college and relive your glory days? Join Rodney Dangerfield for a smorgasbord of a sandwich and some cheesy one-liners when he does just that, in Back to School. Filmed partially on the UW-Madison campus, when it was shot back in the ’80’s, Dangerfield’s presence caused quite a stir. One of the well-documented scenes was Dangerfield walking down from Bascom Hall in nothing but his bathrobe, playing to the crowd with his famous line, “I get no respect.” Support your local business and order a giant deli sandwich in his honor to go with this movie. Madison friends, try Stalzy’s.
Follow two men on a mission from God named Jake and Elwood, with a side of fried chicken to go on a wild ride in The Blues Brothers. Get your old band back together and do a virtual watch party together. Most of the movie was shot in Chicago. Yet one of the biggest scenes, the final car chase, ends in Milwaukee. The location is never mentioned, until a thank you in the credits. Crank up some Aretha after the movie and shake it up with an orange whip, or two, as a nod to John Candy!
Always a bridesmaid and never a bride? Don’t cry. Laugh so loud you’ll pee your pants as you watch Bridesmaids. Set in Milwaukee, this premarital pity party proves women can behave just as badly as men. Kristin Wig, who co-wrote the script, showcases her comedic talent. Serve any bridal shower worthy food; such as champagne, sweets, and a fancy cheese plate.
Order yours from Madison-based, Fromagination, artisanal cheese specialists shipping free to seven states.
Flashback to the ‘50s or ‘70s
Whip up my beef stew in the crockpot and let it simmer, while you reminisce about the 50’s or 70’s while watching Happy Days or That 70’s Show. Who wouldn’t want to catch up with the Cunninghams or the Formans for some family bonding? Hang out with Fonzie and the gang at Arnold’s in Milwaukee or in the Forman’s basement in fictional Point Place for some laughs.
Serve my homemade mud cake with ice cream for dessert. Marion Ross and Kitty Forman would both approve of the menus.
Trending: Rachel Brosnan
Looking for a mystery with a Wisconsin connection? Milwaukee native, Rachel Brosnan’s new thriller, I’m Your Woman is getting rave reviews. A woman is forced to sharpen survival skills while on the run with her baby. The suspense already has me hiding under the blanket and reaching for the popcorn.
Need a little pick me up after that? Binge-watch the series that made Brosnan a star, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, on Amazon. Serve Manhattans, for Midge’s opening act. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re in for a treat and a 50’s fashion show.