First, in the two films, the host usually sat in the middle at the party, from which we observe that both Chinese and Westerners pay attention to the seating arrangement. After the guests have arrived, they will be guided to have a seat by the host. In China, old people or the hosts always sit in the most important place to suggest that they are the master of the house. Generally, the most important guest will sit next to the host.  

Second, people should not eat until the host begins to eat. The three daughters didn’t eat the dishes until their father sat down at the table. Similarly, the guests in Julie and Julia usually began to eat after the host had served all the dishes. 

Third, Chinese and Westerners like to celebrate by drinking when there is a joyous occasion. In the films, both Chinese and Westerners preferred to drink toasts to one another at the party, which will show their respect and best wishes for the friends or guests.

The similarities in table etiquette are caused by people’s respect for ritual. China is one of the four major ancient civilizations. Chinese etiquette was originated in Xia, Shang, and Zhou Periods, and prevailed in Tang and Song Dynasties. Ritual is the moral criterion in Chinese society. People should behave properly when they visit other people’s home. Western countries develop their etiquette system by inheriting other ancient civilizations. Affected by humanism thoughts, Western people attached importance to gentlemen education in ancient times. Nowadays, children are still educated to behave politely and properly at home. Therefore, etiquette education occupies a decisive position in Chinese and Western cultures, which also exert great impact on table etiquette.