Bar Talks

Bar Talks is a captivating documentary film that traces the globe-trotting journey of Charles Schumann, a legendary bartender, author, and former model. Directed by Marieke Schroeder, this biopic released in 2017 explores the world of mixology from Schumann's distinctive perspective, creating a captivating and thought-provoking narrative sure to inspire, enlighten, and entertain the viewer.

Charles Schumann is the owner of the reputable "Schumann’s Bar" in Munich, one of the most esteemed bars worldwide, and is renowned for his instinctive approach to bartending and natural ease with customers. The movie offers an insight into the life and philosophy of this unconventional man, who has been shaping bar culture for more than 40 years.

In Bar Talks, Schumann sets out on a personal expedition to discover the world's finest bars in cities including New York, Havana, Tokyo, and beyond. This journey is not just a tour through the best and most famous bars and drinking establishments worldwide; it’s a voyage of exploration about the significance of drinking culture in diverse societies.

Schumann's journey takes us on a profound exploration into the essence of bars. Throughout the film, he engages in insightful and enlightening conversations with a variety of mixologists, bar owners, authors, and creatures of the night. By giving viewers a window into these candid discussions, the film delves into the deep sociocultural role bars play in different countries. Each location Schumann visits allows us to observe the diverse traditions, practices, idiosyncrasies, and unwritten rules within each unique bar culture.

While the narrative is undeniably centered on Schumann's explorations, Bar Talks features plenty of gorgeous shots of exquisite cocktail creations, tantalizing for any cocktail enthusiast. Schumann’s profound enthusiasm for cocktails and bars seeps through the film, making even the uninitiated viewer develop a newfound appreciation for mixology. He reveals the dimensions of the art of mixology, its aestheticism, and views that to create a perfect drink, like a perfect dish, one should consider it as a form of art.

Bar Talks also delves into the personal side of Charles Schumann, the man himself. We get a glimpse of his personal philosophies and the experiences that have led him to become a world-renowned figure in bar culture. The contrast between Schumann's hard-working persona and his sensitive, introspective moments makes for a complex character portrait. Schroeder’s direction harmoniously balances the exploration of the life and mind of this celebrated bartender with an evolving exploration of modern bar culture.

The documentary also resurrects the debate about gender roles within bar-keeping and the role women played in pioneering the industry. It brings up many thought-provoking questions that spark dialogue on this often-overlooked aspect, making for a robust and comprehensive exploration of today's bars and drinking culture.

From instructional and historical viewpoints, the film has excellent depth. The audience receives an education on the culture, techniques, philosophies, and deep respect that are fundamentals within this diverse industry. Engelhaardt's cinematography gives a new visual appeal to the profession and further enables audiences to appreciate the thoroughness and consideration that goes into each drink.

For anyone who enjoys crafted cocktails, understands the appeal of a well-curated bar, or simply enjoys a well-told human interest story, Bar Talks offers up an engaging opportunity to delve deeper into a familiar yet peculiar industry.

In the end, Bar Talks delivers what its title promises; it’s a thoroughly engaging conversation about bars, cocktails, people, and cultures. It brings to screen the captivating charm of public houses, the people behind them, and the mystique that cloaks these exhilarating social spaces, with Charles Schumann as our charismatic guide. Bar Talks is as much a tribute to Schumann's legacy in the bar industry as it is an exploration of how bars and mixology come together to create unique social microcosms. If you love a good drink—and a riveting story to go with it—this is one film you simply won’t want to miss.