Film offers traditional charm and beauty.

by Lauren Gross
STAFF WRITER

Rarely does a film have the power to sweep away an audience in one breathtaking move.

Chocolat is a masterpiece, a picture so beautifully shaped that it entrances the heart and enchants the soul.

Based on the novel by Joanne Harris, the screenplay was adapted by Robert Nelson Jacobs. The script is intriguing and romantic with a light touch of comedy.

Chocolat is the story of a woman’s ability to touch the hearts of the townspeople and to make a change in a struggle between tradition and progression.

Vianne Rocher (Juliette Binoche) and her daughter Anouk find themselves whisked into a French town clouded by tranquility.

After renting property from the difficult but kindhearted Amande Voizin (Judi Dench), they open a chocolate shop. The conservative townspeople have doubts about the shop until the enchantment of Vianne and the chocolate she creates overwhelms them.

The mayor, Comte de Reynaud (Alfred Molina), tries to stop anything that may disturb the town's purity. However, his disapproval of the shop is cast aside when the river drifters sail in. He arranges to ignore these drifters, and the mood darkens.

The head of the drifters is Roux (Johnny Depp), who connects with Vianne.

The international cast and crew of this film combined to restore the true essence of film. Swedish director Lasse Hallström, who also directed **The Cider House Rules,** captures the true beauty of nature. The movie was filmed on location in Beynac and Flavigny, France, and the landscape of the French countryside contributes to this fairytale story.

This film is as beautiful visually as it is musically. The harmonious sounds, arranged by Rachel Portman, contribute to the sensuality of the film.

The cast contributed personality and taste to the film. French actress Binoche, a ravishing reflection of Julia Roberts, carries a mystical charm onscreen. Depp’s presence is surprisingly confident and well developed. Also contributing is Swedish actress Lena Olin and British phenoms Molina and Dench.

In a delicate package, this film combines the characteristics of a true romantic comedy. With the visual splendor, incredible cast and other ingredients, Chocolat should be tasted by all.