Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Written by George Lucas, Leigh Brackett, & Lawrence Kasdan
Directed by Irvin Kershner
Starring (in this scene): Mark Hammill as Luke Skywalker, Kenny Baker as R2D2, Frank Oz as Yoda
Chef’s Note: What is Luke having for lunch here?*
First off, we must note the sleek yet functional lunchbox he produces for his little picnic – very nice. With its separated compartments, it is somewhat reminiscent of a Bento box.
Of course, this is long long ago in a galaxy far far away, so the similarity must be attributed to coincidence (or, perhaps, evidence of certain designs being universal?).
Still, while the contents may have to remain unknown given the galactic and temporal remove, the fact that Luke is a Rebel Alliance soldier means we can at least say with certainty that what he has here is an MCI (i.e., a pack of MREs, i.e., military field rations).
A field ration is meant to be a self-contained package of meals to sustain the soldier on the move or in the battlefield. It is designed for a long shelf life and minimal preparation before eating. It uses tinned, precooked or freeze-dried foods, powered drink mixes and concentrated food bars, suitably tailored to meet national or ethnic tastes.
Chef’s Note: Actually, the contents are known! Straight from Mr. Skywalker himself:
Airline food, indeed. I suppose it’s good to have fresh breath whilst on secret missions – morale and all that.
Still, I can’t fault Yoda for his disdain for Luke’s fare – certainly can’t compare to bowl of Root Leaf Stew, that’s for sure.
Chef’s Note: May the 4th Be With You!