Both Julie & Julia are a story inspired by the real world. This real story begins with both women whose lives are dramatically intertwined. Although both women are separated in terms of space and time, they appear to be equal in terms of emotion, fear, feelings, loneliness, and other things of interest.
Streep is mannered and camp... gleefully impersonating Child's eccentric demeanour and hooting voice. Yet her performance brims over with such joy and mirth and love that it's hard not to be won over.
A film that's charming, funny - especially when Streep is on screen, broadcasting her superb impression of the tall, charismatic, high-pitched Child - but leaves you with a dissatisfaction with modern life that no culinary masterpiece can relieve.
One can't help but wonder if Ephron would've been better off focusing exclusively on Child: She's simply more interesting screen company. But Ephron's commercial touch serves her well here.
Sometimes a meal can be less than perfect but still so thoroughly enjoyable that a missed ingredient here or a bit of overcooking there doesn't really matter.
