Lights, Camera, Mixology: Crafting Movie Themed Cocktails You Can't Resist!
Lights, Camera, Cocktails!
Welcome to the exciting realm of Movie Themed Cocktails, where the magic of movies meets the art of crafting delicious cocktails. As an experienced bartender with a passion for cinema, I'm thrilled to guide you through the process of creating cinematic-inspired drinks right in the comfort of your home. So, grab your shaker and let's embark on a blockbuster beverage adventure!
Setting the Scene - The Movie-Inspired Bar
Creating the right atmosphere is key to enhancing your movie-themed mixology mixology experience. Consider adorning your home bar area with posters, props, or memorabilia from your favorite films. My personal touch? I've dedicated a shelf to iconic movie glasses and props I've collected over the years – it adds that extra touch of authenticity to my at-home cinematic bar.
But the easiest way has to be to just shove Netflix on the telly and mix up some themed drinks.
Essential Tools and Glassware
Before we dive into the recipes, let's make sure your home bar is well-equipped. You don't need a Hollywood budget for this! A basic toolkit including a shaker, muddler, strainer, and a jigger will do wonders. To elevate the experience, invest in glassware that complements the theme of each cocktail. For instance, sipping a classic "Casablanca Daiquiri" from a vintage-inspired glass transports you right into the glamour of the silver screen.
Check out my cocktail course here. I have a bunch of lessons dedicated to the essential ingredients, glassware, and how to properly set up your home bar.
#1 White Russian - The Big Lebowski
Released in 1998, The Big Lebowski is a movie starring Jeff bridges as Jeff "The Dude" Lebowski, a laid-back, easy-going burnout who happens to have the same name as a millionaire whose wife owes a lot of dangerous people a whole bunch of money - resulting in the Dude having his rug soiled, sending him spiraling into the Los Angeles underworld.
Throughout the film, the dude is constantly holding, drinking, finishing or making a white, milky coffee concoction - The White Russian.
Unlike films where a character's signature cocktails only get a brief mention, just long enough to intrigue fellow drink enthusiasts. The big Lebowski heavily features the white Russian. So when the movie became an instant cult classic, so did the white Russian.
The white Russian has been around for a hell of a lot longer than the late 90s, however, this film surely brought the classic cocktail back from the dead. The White Russian became the Pornstar martini of the early noughties which eventually because of its ease to make and cheap ingredients became a student bar’s must have.
White Russian cocktail recipe
Ingredients
50ml Coffee liqueur
25ml Vodka
25ml Double cream
Method
Fill a rocks glass with ice, mix the vodka and coffee liqueur then slowly pour over the cream so you have a white layer. Stir and enjoy!
#2 Vesper Martini - James Bond
The martini has to be one of the most well known cocktails in the world. In part thanks to the classic James Bond movies which helped mold this classy, elegant reputation of the martini. In particular, the Vesper Martini.
One of the first things people think when confronted with a martini is the classic line “Shaken, Not stirred” Something about being suited up just makes a man want a martini. Must be the James Bond effect.
What's interesting about this specific cocktail is that, in most cases. Cocktails chosen to be featured in T.V and film already exist, hardly ever is the cocktail created specifically for the film. But in the case of the Vesper Martini that's exactly what happened. The Vesper martini was invented by the author of the James Bond books.
The Vesper Martini was made famous in Fleming's first James Bond novel “Casino Royale” Published in 1953. In the book James Bond explains to a casino bartender exactly how to make the cocktail. “Three measures of Gordon's, one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet. Shake it very well until it's ice-cold, then add a large thin slice of lemon peel. Got it?'
And so the Vesper Martini was born. The vesper martini gets its name from fictional double agent Vesper Lynd in Casino Royale.
Unfortunately, if you wanted to make your vesper martini following the original recipe quoted above. You will be sorely disappointed. First of all, Gordon’s gin has changed a lot since 1953 and secondly, Kina Lillet no longer exists. The alternative available is Lillet Blanc.
Vesper martini recipe
Ingredients
40ml Gin
20ml Vodka
10ml Lillet Blanc
Method
Combine all ingredients in a mixing jar filled with cubed ice.
Stir for 20 seconds or preferred dilution.
Strain into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with a large lemon twist.
Check out this guide on the martini as it has much more information about the vesper martinis, the Gibson martini which we will speak about next, as well as all the other varieties of martinis you could possibly dream up.
#3 Gibson Martini - The Queen's Gambit
The Gibson Martini has long been a favorite of mine and as I mentioned in the intro to this post, is the reason I wanted to write this. Due to the influence that the queen's gambit on Netflix has had on the cocktail.
To be fair, when it's been watched by over 62 millions households it’s no surprise that the Queen's Gambit has successfully brought one of the most unknown variations of a martini to one of the most popular.
Ironically enough, I wrote a full guide a while back on the martini. The full history and guide to drinking martinis, which you can read here. In that post when covering the Gibson I mentioned how it's the “lesser known martini”. That was less than 4 months ago and already that has changed to it being one of the most popular.
That's the power and influence of T.V and film I guess!
The basics for making a Gibson are the same as any other martini. Gin and vermouth - you can make them dry, sweet, wet or perfect. The difference is instead of an olive or lemon twist to finish it off, you finish them off with a pickled onion.
You can read the full recipe as well as recipes for every other martini below;
Ultimate Martini Guide and Gibson Martini cocktail recipe
#4 Cosmopolitan - Sex and the city
Sex and the city is an absolute classic. Throughout the show's long running time on T.V and two feature length films, the New York gals tried and tested damn near every trend in food, drink, fashion and men.
But one cocktail was featured more than any other, and that was the Cosmo. These 4 fashionable ladies just loved a cosmopolitan which in turn, gave the cosmopolitan a trying not to be sexist very girly reputation.
But the Cosmo isn’t just for middle aged rich white women. The Cosmo is for anyone, it’s a delicious and well balanced cocktail which if you haven’t tried, I strongly recommend.
Cosmopolitan cocktail recipe
Ingredients
40ml Vodka
20ml Cointreau
10ml Fresh lime juice
25ml Cranberry juice
Method
For the full method and history of this cocktail, check out this article here - The Sex and the City Cosmo - Everything you need to know
#5 Red eye - Cocktail
Cocktail, if you haven’t seen it, is about a man (Played by Tom Cruise) who wants a high-paying marketing job, but needs a business degree first. Working as a bartender to pay for college, Flanagan is mentored by his veteran boss, Doug Coughlin (Bryan Brown). Together, their showy tricks and charisma command large crowds and tip payments
Not only did the film shine a spotlight on flair bartending, it also made the red eye cocktail well known after Bryan Brown's character utters the words “Ever had a Red Eye?” a purported hangover cure-all.
Although the film made the drink famous, it was pretty short-lived. As the red eye is, well, disgusting. Sorry but it is.
Red Eye cocktail recipe
Ingredients
25ml vodka
150ml tomato juice
100ml Beer
1 egg
Method
Pour the vodka and tomato juice into a chilled mug.
Pour in the beer.
Crack the egg into the drink and serve.
#6 Orange whip - The Blues Brothers
Another cocktail made famous by a cult classic. This time, the blues brothers.
"Three Orange Whips!" declares John Candy's character in The Blues Brothers, right before the major fund-raising scene. Following its film debut, the cocktail — rum and vodka mixed with cream and orange juice experienced a huge resurgence in popularity.
Orange Whip Recipe
Ingredients
50ml Cream
25ml vodka
25ml rum
150ml orange juice
Method
Blend all ingredients in a blender and pour into a tall glass filled with ice.
#7 French 75 - Casablanca
The French 75 is a delicious drink which gets its name from the 75-millimeter M1897, a light gun that became the mainstay of the French field artillery in World War I.
Throughout this 1942 classic movie that is Casablanca, a lot of cocktails are gulped down, after all, the movie is centred around a bar called Rick’s. The characters in this love story will regularly visit the bar and drink cocktail after cocktail. However, throughout all the great drinks featured in this movie shout out to the champagne cocktail, an absolute classic, there is one that stands out.
That cocktail is the French 75s ordered by Yvonne and her Nazi suitor.
French 75 Cocktail recipe
Ingredients
25ml Gin
15ml Sugar syrup
15ml Fresh lemon juice
Topped with champagne (or prosecco)
Method
Build all ingredients in a champagne flute and lightly stir
#8 The Little Mermaid Cocktail
In homage to the release of the live action remake of the Little Mermaid, Here's a cocktail that looks like the ocean, tastes like the ocean, and is based of everyone favourite Tequila sipper - The frozen Margarita.
Get the full recipe here or check out the below video.
#9 Star Wars Cocktails
I can sit here and speak to you for hours about crafting cocktails to pair with star wars. But i’ll just cut to the chase. This is the Baby Yoda cocktail.
It looks like Grogu, aka, Baby Yoda. And not only that but it’s super easy to make. It’s also the most popular post on this website. So I recommend giving it a try!
You can also see me make an improved version on the video below.
#10 The Cruella de Vil Cocktail
A cocktail fit for a villain, this is the Cruella De Daiquiri inspired by Disney’s Cruella.
Cruella De Vil is truly one of the most underrated Disney villains. Now, if you’re like me and you’re A) a movie buff, and B) a Disney fanatic, then the release of Disney’s live action Cruella movie really inspired you. How good was Emma Stone in that? Brilliant!
So I just had to create a cocktail inspired by it.
#11 The Godfather's Old Fashioned
Inspired by "The Godfather"
This classic cocktail pays homage to the legendary film. I recommend using a rich bourbon, a sugar cube, and a dash of bitters. It's a sipper, perfect for those contemplative moments just like Don Corleone. I often enjoy this one with a cigar on my balcony, channelling my inner mob boss.
Get the classic Old Fashioned recipe here or check out the below video.
You could also try out the classic Godfather cocktail. It’s super easy to make and needs to make a comeback, get the godfather recipe here and check out the below video.
#12 Blue Velvet Martini
Inspired by "Blue Velvet"
For a touch of David Lynch in your glass, try this Blue Velvet Martini. Vodka, blue curaçao, and a hint of lavender syrup create a drink that's as mysterious and intriguing as the film itself. Pro tip: dim the lights and let the surreal atmosphere of the movie seep into your sipping experience.
#13 Mint Julep in Maycomb
Inspired by "To Kill a Mockingbird"
Transport yourself to the charm of the South with this refreshing Mint Julep. Bourbon, fresh mint, sugar, and crushed ice – it's a perfect companion for revisiting the pages of Harper Lee's masterpiece. I often enjoy this while re-reading favorite chapters or watching the film adaptation.
Get the full recipe here or check out the below video.
#14 Harry Potter Inspired Drinks - Butterbeer Bliss
Inspired by the "Harry Potter" series
Step into the wizarding world with a delightful Butterbeer. This concoction of cream soda, butterscotch syrup, and a dollop of whipped cream is a magical treat for any Potterhead. Prepare to be transported to the Three Broomsticks with every sip.
Butter beer - Image source Liquor.com
Alcoholic Harry Potter Butterbeer recipe
Ingredients
1 ounce butterscotch schnapps
1 ounce vanilla vodka
6 ounces cream soda
Garnish: whipped cream
Garnish: butterscotch syrup
Garnish: butterscotch whipped cream (recipe below)
Steps
Add butterscotch schnapps, vanilla vodka and cream soda into a frosty mug.
Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and butterscotch syrup drizzled on top, or top with butterscotch whipped cream.
Butterbeer recipe including frozen buttebeer, non alcoholic butterbeer and warm butterbeer here.
#15 Blood and Sand Cocktail
Inspired by the film "Blood and Sand"
This bold and smoky cocktail is a tribute to the 1922 film "Blood and Sand." A blend of scotch, sweet vermouth, cherry brandy, and orange juice, it's a complex mix that perfectly mirrors the film's dramatic narrative. Sip slowly and savor the layers of flavor.
The Director's Cut - Customizing Your Cocktails
One of the joys of mixology is the creative freedom it offers. Feel free to tweak the recipes based on your preferences. Swap bourbon for rye, experiment with different bitters, or add a unique garnish. My patrons always appreciate a personalized touch, and it's equally rewarding when I can tailor a drink to suit their tastes.
Customizing your cocktails is exactly what my cocktails from scratch course is about. So do check that out.
Pairing Suggestions - Movie and Mix
The Cozy Night-In Combo
Pair a classic Casablanca cocktail with the film "Casablanca" for a timeless, black-and-white movie night. The tropical notes of the daiquiri beautifully complement the exotic allure of the film's setting.
Sci-Fi Sips
For a futuristic film like "Blade Runner," concoct a "B52" The fruity and bold flavors mirror the movie's visually stunning and complex narrative.
Horror Flick and a Dark Brew
A “just a bunch of hocus pocus” perfectly complements a horror movie marathon. The rich blackberry flavor with a hint of darkness is just what you need to keep the chills at bay.
Check out this guide on creating black cocktails to learn more about horror pairing drinks.
Final Credits - Conclusion
Crafting cocktails inspired by your favorite movies is more than mixing drinks; it's about creating an experience. The ambiance, the carefully chosen glassware, and the flavor profiles all contribute to a memorable evening at home. As you embark on this cinematic mixology journey, remember that there are no strict rules – just have fun and let your creativity flow.
Films and T.V have long had influence on everything from the way we dress to the way we speak and drinks are not exempt from that influence. Cocktails have been written into movies and T.V as a way to build characters and personality. Having a favorite drink or a “signature cocktail” helps to somewhat establish that character. Whether it's the big Lebowski and his White Russian or James Bond and his Martini.
I like to keep myself updated with the current drink trends and the what's what of today's drink industry. Call me somewhat of a drinks nerd. And recently I’ve been seeing the Gibson Martini prop up everywhere.
I love a Gibson don’t get me wrong! but it’s been around for a very long time - the 1890s. So why is it now getting popular? It’s only when I read in to this that I realized the Gibson makes a brief appearance in Netflix's new biggest show The Queen's Gambit.
Come to watch it and I was shocked to see it’s only actually mentioned in one episode. Throughout the whole season the word Gibson is only mentioned once from what I recall.
Sure it shows the characters drinking them but there isn't really any focus other than Alma Wheatley briefly mentioning she prefers them and finds them to be more refined.
And yet, this one sentence has seemed to push the Gibson into what was one of the least popular Martini variations to one of the most popular.
Which got me thinking about just how big the influence movies and T.V have on drink trends. So with that being said, I’ve compiled a list of past cocktails which were made popular and pushed into the spotlight by stars of the big screen.
Closing Note
Cheers to the magic of movies and the joy of crafting extraordinary cocktails at home. I hope these recipes and tips add a touch of cinematic flair to your next home bartending adventure. Stay tuned for more mixology adventures, and don't forget to share your own creations with the world – after all, every great cocktail deserves its own close-up!
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Hi, I’m Cameron, guv’nor of Smartblend. If you liked this then you’re in luck, I have a bunch more like it. I share only party planning, vegetarian and pescatarian food recipes, cocktails, and drink guides with a sprinkling of wellness and lifestyle. If that sounds like you, then stick around!
