Chocolat - A Movie Review

Anybody got a sweet tooth? Let’s get some chocolate at the candy store.

Chocolat was released to theaters in 2000. Opening a chocolate shop in a conservative town in a small french village, townsfolk are reviled. Not giving in, Vienna has a knack for guessing people’s favorite flavors. This small village learns an impactful lesson.

I highly recommend that you have sweets prepared when you watch Chocolat. The film is all about embracing eccentricities. One of my favorite aspects of Chocolat (aside from the delicious candy) is that you can make a difference by sharing what you are good at.

I loved Juliette Binoche’s approach to the role of Vienne. Vienne is positive, determined, and has a knack for guessing people’s favorite chocolate. She proves to be an excellent saleswoman, never letting opinions hurt her. It only helps her improve. Anybody can build a business. With some struggles, Vienne is resolute to make it in this conservative town.

Another trait that I admired about Vienne is that she is not selfish. She asked to make sure if she was not hurting anybody instead of going about with her business. In a way, Vienne changes their outlook. Look out for yourself and everyone around you.

The ensemble had a pivotal role. I would give anything to be in the ensemble for this film so I could taste the delicious chocolate. Due to living in a corrupt town, everyone had a different opinion. Everyone is there for one another in a small town.

I cherished the mother-daughter relationship between Vienne and Anouk (Victoire Thivisol). Not seeing eye-to-eye at times, Vienne teaches Anouk everything she needs to know about the chocolate business. They baked delicious treats together.

Expect an appearance by Johnny Depp. This has become my new favorite role of Depp’s. Though, I was reminded of Jack Sparrow a little too much. Depp was superb. The relationship that stems between him and Vienne is the best. Based on their charming chemistry, their interactions sold the film.

A lot of characters stand out. Judi Dench is a great example. She plays a versatile role than what she is used to playing. Other credits include Alfred Molina, Carrie-Anne Moss, Antonio Gill, Helena Cardona, Gaelen Connell, and a list of many more. The priest character was another favorite.

Lasse Hallstrom explored the range of the message of Chocolat. He definitely had audiences salivating at the mouth. Character dynamic is essential in a film like this. Build your own business. Don’t let anyone else’s words get to you.

Hallstrom also explored how shops make an impact in small towns. He created a pivotal design for the town. Not only does it feel reminiscent of the town you grew up in, but it’s a chance to explore a town in another country. Looking back at my hometown, there were a lot of significant stores. It’s a way for the community to come together.

Camera angles studied reactions closely. Anytime someone bit into a savoring piece of chocolate, reactions sell subtle, but vital, development. Lasse gave the chocolate business the rightful attention that it deserves. All businesses deserve that. You never know what you could learn about a business.

Never worry about what you are not supposed to do. Live a little. Measure goodness by what you create. Along with who you include. Being different may not be easy, however, it leaves a monumental impact on the world. Be the driving force to encourage change.

Enjoy a piece of candy and give Chocolat a watch. I am so glad that I had ice cream while watching this film.