Classics: A Review of Colette By Lauren Ennis

"The hand that holds the pen writes history" says famed writer Colette. Over the course of her long and notorious career Colette defied the social, sexual, and literary norms of her day with a daring and personal flair that could fill several history books. The 2018 drama Colette chronicles the life of the literary maverick from her unassuming beginnings in rural France through her tumultuous marriage to her eventual transformation into the icon that readers know today. Even as it relates the historic facts of Colette's life and career the film weaves a startlingly modern tale of one woman's journey to discover her own identity. Part period piece and part timeless ode to the creative spirit Colette is a historical drama that speaks to our times.

Watch it, I'm writing here!

The story begins in rural France as teenage Gabrielle Colette is courted by worldly Parisian writer Henri Gauthier-Villars, better known by his pen name 'Willy'. Despite the significant age difference between the two and rumors surrounding Willy's libertine lifestyle, her parents consent to the marriage in hopes of alleviating their financial troubles. The couple then travel to Paris where Gabrielle learns that her husband owes his literary success to a series of ghost writers working under his name. She is also dismayed to learn that his supposedly flourishing brand is facing financial difficulties. Before long, the artistically inclined Gabrielle is recruited to join the ranks of ghost writers working under Willy's name. To both husband and wife's astonishment her semi-autobiographical first novel, Claudine, proves to be a runaway commercial and critical hit. The pair's professional success soon puts a strain on their already fraught marriage, however as Gabrielle becomes increasingly determined to write under her own name. The film then goes on to chart her struggle to find her social, sexual, and creative identity as she is transformed from complacent and sheltered Gabrielle to fiery trendsetter Colette.

The film breathes new life into the classic period piece by relating its startlingly contemporary story with a wit and style worthy of its subject. Although the film does contain the customary dazzling costumes and tranquil landscapes typical of the genre, the acting and writing remain at center stage. As a result, viewers are able to fully engage with the film's multidimensional heroine to the fullest extent and gain insight into both Gabrielle the woman and Colette the writer. The script and performances combine to lend depth and complexity to each character, creating the illusion that actual lives are unfolding on-screen rather than a scripted plot. This is particularly true of the film's portrayal of Willy who maintains an unexpected charisma and humanity even as he engages in one underhanded activity after another. Colette herself is also presented with unusual realism as the film commendably refuses to portray her as either a martyr to the confines of her era or as an anachronism. As a result, viewers are treated to a version of Colette's life that more closely resembles her actual biography than the legend popular history has built around her.

These pants are made for walkin...

The film also succeeds in its frank portrayal of her unconventional lifestyle. While period biographies either sanitize or glorify their subject's personal lives Colette does neither. Instead the film depicts the evolution of Colette and Willy's marriage from a conventional union to a bohemian open relationship without offering any judgment. This objectivity allows viewers to make their own judgments and prevents the film from drifting into heavy handedness. Perhaps the film's greatest strength is the way in which it accurately relates its historical tale while posing questions about issues that we continue to face today. The film's exploration of such subjects as gender and marital roles, sexual experimentation and artistic freedom allow the film to depict the events of Colette's controversial life while simultaneously reminding us of the questions and controversies in our own lives. In this way, the film maintains a sense of relevance without losing its sense of time and place. Combining time-honored tradition with timely themes Colette is a film that is every bit as timeless as the woman who inspired it.

The world of turn of the century France comes to glittering life thanks to the superb work of the film's cast. Eleanor Thomlinson is appropriately alluring in her role as the seductive American heiress who captures the eyes of both Colette and Willy. Denise Gough conveys both warmth and strength as Colette's gender-bending love interest, Missy. Dominic West is magnetic in his by turns charming and callous performance as pleasure and fame seeking Willy. Keira Knightley is at her most dynamic and fierce as she fully embodies the contradictory, controversial, and ever creative Colette.

Colette is every bit as innovative and fascinating as its heroine. Through its intelligent script and exemplary performances the film brings the life and times of Colette to the screen with a vitality and effervescent charm that is nothing short of inspired. With its dazzling visuals and deceptively light wit the film is a feast for both the eyes and the mind. Though its frank portrayal of topical themes the film takes the tired period piece genre into the 21st century. Beguiling, clever, daring, and utterly unique; Colette was all of these things and more and thankfully so is the film that she inspired.

Whose story is this again?!

Classics: A Review of Mamma Mia By Lauren Ennis

Many little girls grow up dreaming of the day that they will walk down the aisle in the perfect dress with their father at their side. In the 2008 hit musical Mamma Mia! Sophie's dream wedding is hampered by one complication; she doesn't know who should walk her down the aisle because she doesn't know who her father is. Songs and shenanigans ensue when she sets out to find three men from her mother's past in hopes that one of them will prove to be her biological father. Through the power of love, laughter, and plenty of disco she finds her three possible dads only to realize that the person she really needs to walk her down the aisle is the one who was by her side all along.

Mamma Mia, here we go again...

The story begins as Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) sends invitations to her wedding to three men (Pierce Brosnan, Stellan Skarsgard, and Colin Firth) from her mother's past. When her college friends arrive to attend the wedding she gleefully informs them that she plans to have her father walk her down the aisle, even though she doesn't know exactly who her father is. Sophie then goes on to reveal that after reading her mother's old diary she learned of three men with whom her mother had relationships the summer before Sophie was born; all of whom could be her possible father. She then shocks her friends by telling them that she has invited all three men to her wedding, without telling her mother, Donna (Meryl Streep). Hilarity ensues when all three men arrive for the wedding and an already over stressed Donna is forced to confront her former flames while Sophie struggles to determine which of them is her biological father.

Meryl Streep; academy award winner and dancing queen

For a film whose plot hinges on three possible fathers, the appropriately titled Mamma Mia! is all about mothers and daughters. Free-spirited Donna and tradition minded Sophie could not see the world more differently. Unconventional Donna worries that Sophie will regret her decision to marry young while Sophie longs for the traditional family that she never had. Even as she remains wary of Sophie's choices, however, Donna provides her daughter with nothing less than her full support as she throws herself into planning Sophie's wedding all while managing her struggling hotel. She even goes so far as to graciously welcome her three former lovers in an effort to avoid any interference with the wedding. When the time finally comes to let her daughter go to start a new life, Donna puts Sophie's happiness before her own misgivings and sends her off with love and encouragement. While Sophie might fail to recognize these everyday examples of her mothers love the more that she learns about Donna the more that she is able to appreciate the sacrifices that her mother made throughout her life. It is this new found appreciation and understanding of her mother that finally allows Sophie to see her dedicated mother as a source of inspiration rather than embarrassment. By the film's final number both women learn to see the world from each other's perspective and Sophie realizes that regardless of who her father is, her mother already provided her with all of the family love, encouragement, and guidance that she could ever need.

Mamma Mia! is every bit as charming, uplifting, and infectiously entertaining as the ABBA tunes that it is built around. Following in the classic Hollywood musical tradition the film showcases a series of toe-tapping numbers against a story that is pure escapist fun. Though its combination of popular music and winning performances the film transports viewers to a cinematic fantasy that you'll want to return to again and again. For a film that will have everybody and their mother ready to dance, jive, and have the time of their lives hit the disco floor with Mamma Mia!

Through its charismatic performances, Mamma Mia! treats viewers to a musical extravaganza. Christine Baranski and Julie Walters are uproarious in their turns as Donna's eccentric best friends and former band mates, Tanya and Rosie. Dominic Cooper makes for an apt leading man in his endearing turn as Sophie's fiance, Skye. Colin Firth is a dry-witted delight as Donna's glam-rocker ex turned stuffy banker, Harry. Stellan Skarsgard is all macho charisma as Sophie's second possible father, bad boy adventurer Bill. Pierce Brosnan conveys the debonair charm of a matinee idol as Donna's great love, architect Sam. Amanda Seyfried and Meryl Streep own center stage with Streep lending one of the most exuberantly entertaining performances of her career and Seyfriend showing off her musical and comedic chops with equal skill.

Easily one of the most memorable movie musicals of the modern era,  Mamma Mia! provides viewers with an escape they will want to retreat to again and again. Through its toe-tapping tunes and uplifting script the film relates an endearing tale of mothers and daughters that the whole family will enjoy. For a film that is equal parts heartwarming and showstopping look no further than Mamma Mia!

I'm not gonna cry *sniff*

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Classics: A Review of Ed Wood By Lauren Ennis

'Who is the best director of all time' is a question that cinephiles like to ask but can rarely answer. If you ask movie buffs who the worst director of all time is, however, chances are that you'll receive a quick and wholehearted reply; Edward D Wood Jr. Between 1947 and 1960 Wood directed a series of low budget sci-fi and horror films that critics and audiences agree were truly monstrous for all of the wrong reasons. While Wood's story seems the stuff of tinseltown tragedy Tim Burton's 1994 biopic tells the director's story in a way that is a testament to the creative spirit, if not to creative talent. Released at the height of movie maverick Burton's career, Ed Wood is every bit as outrageous, offbeat, and oddly inspiring as its subject matter.

Dude looks like a lady!

The story begins in 1952 Los Angeles as Wood's latest theatrical effort, a heavy handed World War I allegory, makes its stage debut. When critics pan the production Wood sets his sights on the silver screen. Inspired by the real life story of trans-woman Christine Jorgensen's sexual reassignment surgery, he pens one of his most notorious films, the much maligned Glen or Glenda. As if the film's subject matter weren't sensitive enough, Wood pushes the censors even further by filling the script with references to his personal life, including his penchant for secretly cross-dressing in his girlfriend's clothes. Despite his girlfriend's understandable protests, the project moves forward, only to prove itself to be another flop. Despite the film's failure he continues on unswayed and doggedly pursues his dreams in a series of misadventures which remain the stuff of Hollywood legend.

Equal parts prestige biopic and offbeat indie flick Ed Wood is Burton's ode to the magic of the movies and the people who make them. Although Wood's dreams of critical and commercial success eluded him the film presents his story not as one of thwarted hopes and broken dreams but instead as a tale of passion, persistence, and the importance of staying true to yourself. In this way the film transforms the infamously eccentric director into an every-man whom anyone who has ever felt out of place can see themselves in. Even as he encounters one setback after another the film portrays Wood as possessing an unwavering optimism that is nothing short of infectious, allowing him to emerge as the film's unlikely hero. The film's commemoration of his tireless, if unsuccessful, efforts serves as a reminder of the inspiring power of cinema while paying apt homage to those who make it all possible. Through its tribute to Wood and his rag-tag cast and crew the film also delivers a powerful, if familiar, message that 'visions are worth fighting for' because 'there's no point in making someone else's dreams'. Hailed by critics but largely ignored by audiences upon its release, Ed Wood has gone on to become a cult classic that is widely considered to be Burton's crowning achievement. Through its celebration of the creative process rather than creative achievements Ed Wood breaks the tired mold of the standard biopic to relate a heartfelt, humorous, and relateable tale that revived Wood's legacy while inspiring a new generation of film goers.

The wonderfully wacky world of Edward D Wood Jr is brilliantly brought to the screen by the talented cast. Saraj Jessica Parker perfectly captures the frustrations of wood's long suffering girlfriend, Dolores. Bill Murray turns on his signature dry charm as Wood's transgender friend and collaborator, Bunny. Patricia Arquette is a delight as Wood's understanding girlfriend turned supportive wife, Kathy. Lisa Marie and Jeffrey Jones uncannily portray 50's television personalities Vampira and The Amazing Criswell. Martin Landau nearly steals the film in his turn as tormented horror icon turned struggling addict Bela Lugosi. Even in the midst of these superb supporting performances, however, the film belongs to Johnny Depp, who lends one of his most endearing and engaging performances yet as cock-eyed idealist Wood.

Much like a modern day Don Quixote Edward D Wood Jr. devoted his life to what would prove to be an impossible dream. While his efforts earned him derision and poverty in life, the film that he inspired has earned him his place in cinematic history not as a successful director, but as a man who succeeded in pursuing his dreams regardless of the outcome. Through its sympathetic script and superb performances Ed Wood serves as both a personal homage to Wood and the filmmakers of his generation and to anyone who's ever chased their wildest dreams.

Classics: A Review of Spies By Lauren Ennis

Secrets, sabotage, subterfuge, and seduction are all in a  day's work for Soviet agents Zoya and Arina in 2013's miniseries Spies. This Russian drama trades in the glamour and cliches of Western spy thrillers for a gripping exploration of war-time intelligence work. At once a compelling character study and an explosive thriller the miniseries lends viewers apt insight into both its unlikely heroines and the shadowy world in which they must work. Easily one of television's most credible forays into espionage Spies relates a complex tale worthy of the real-life agents who inspired it.

Odds are they won't live to see tomorrow

The story begins in the Soviet Union on the eve of World War II. Struggling single mother Zoya becomes a grifter in order to provide for herself and her young daughter. Meanwhile, idealistic and affluent Arina searches for a way to contribute to the Soviet cause. After a chance encounter the two women's lives converge when Zoya participates in a robbery that results in the murder of Arina's mother. The ensuing investigation leads to Zoya's arrest as well as the revelation of Arina's family's connections to a refugee organization smuggling dissidents out of the USSR. Arina's ensuing arrest leads to her crossing paths with Zoya once again when both women are presented with an offer by the state; join the nation's budding intelligence organization or face a sentence in one of the Soviet Union's notorious work camps. The two enemies forge an uneasy alliance as they enter the treacherous world of international intelligence where the only people that they can trust is themselves and just maybe each other.

Over the course of its ten episodes Spies delves far deeper than the average spy thriller and creates a compelling portrait of people at war; with enemy nations, with each other, and with themselves. The nuanced script avoids falling into the trap of genre cliche by portraying each character with subtlety and humanity. In this way, the series ensures that viewers will continue to root for its leading ladies, even as they evolve into reluctant anti-heroines. Similarly the script is careful to avoid "good guy" and "bad guy" stereotypes by highlighting the fact that the spies are working for a regime that is in many ways as inhumane as the one they are fighting against. One of the drama's most resonating aspects is its portrayal of the personal price that each spy must pay as they compromise their personal relationships and values in their attempts to compromise their targets. The emotional toll upon the spies is particularly present in Arina's story line as she grows from an idealistic and naive student to a hardened and traumatized woman. Through its compelling exploration of war-time intelligence and the unsung men and women who conducted it Spies weaves a complex tale of political intrigue and personal sacrifice that is guaranteed to leave viewers wishing that the series had  a Cold War sequel.

Are you sure that's your final answer?

The secretive world of Soviet intelligence comes alive thanks to the expert work of the talented cast. Vladimir Vdovichenko lends a nuanced turn as the women's world weary instructor, Commandant Vorotynnikov. Anatoliy Rudenko conveys boy next door charm as Arina's sheltered husband, Volodya. Evgeniy Pronin makes for a charismatic leading man as the women's commanding officer, Nikolia Petrov. Even in the midst of numerous engrossing performances, the miniseries belongs to Svetlana Ivanova and Svetlana Ustinova as Arina and Zoya. Ivanova expertly conveys a full range of emotions with raw energy and convincing nuance as she charts Arina's journey from idealistic student to disillusioned agent. Similarly, Ustinova portrays Zoya's transformation from self-interested criminal to self-sacrificing spy.

Hidden identities, shifting alliances, secret weapons, and daring escapes; Spies contains all of these familiar elements, but also so much more. More than just another spy story Spies is a mature portrait of the world of espionage and the conflicted individuals who inhabit it. Through its intelligent and emotionally honest script and its brilliant performances the miniseries expertly weaves a web of secret motives, conflicted allegiances, and thrilling action the likes of which television has rarely seen. For binge-worthy viewing join Zoya and Arina as they become the Soviet Union's most watchable Spies.

Homework has never been this much fun

Classics: A Review of Ordeal By Innocence By Lauren Ennis

Historically, an ordeal was a physical or mental test which accused persons were forced to endure in order to prove their innocence. These primitive tests included no evidence, and were often fatal regardless of the person’s innocence or guilt. In Agatha Christie’s Ordeal by Innocence the methods may be modern but the ordeal is never less than deadly for the dysfunctional Argyll family. Easily one of the darkest adaptations of Christie’s work, this 2018 miniseries explores the aftermath of a crime and the ways in which the past becomes an ordeal in of itself for both guilty and innocent alike.

There's no place like home for the holidays

The story begins with the brutal killing of famed philanthropist and heiress Rachel Argyll (Anna Chancellor) on Christmas Eve, 1954. The gruesome crime leaves Rachel’s family shattered beyond repair when her adopted son, Jack (Anthony Boyle), is arrested for the murder and later dies in prison before the case reaches trial. The series then flashes ahead a year and a half later as Rachel’s widower, Leo (Bill Nighy), prepares to marry his sultry former secretary. As Rachel and Leo’s four surviving children return home old wounds are laid bare while family secrets threaten to unfurl. In the midst of this already fraught atmosphere a dubious stranger arrives at the estate claiming to be Jack’s alibi for the night of Rachel’s murder. As the revelation of Jack’s innocence comes to light another, more sinister realization descends upon the family; if Jack didn’t kill Rachel, then the killer is still alive and lurking amongst them.

The miniseries combines the best in classic Christie with the elements of a modern psychological thriller to create a viewing experience that is truly to die for. Rather than focusing upon the crime itself and the immediate aftermath the series instead breaks with the traditional murder mystery format by exploring both the events leading up to the murder and the its resonating impact. In this way the series shifts its focus from ‘whodunnit’ to why was it done. Through this twist in its structure the series is afforded a much more modern and complex approach as it delves into the minds of its long list of suspects and explores the events that shaped each of them. As the script reached deeper into the characters’ damaged pasts the series evolved into a gritty psychological thriller that poses as many pointed questions about trauma, violence, social class, and justice as it answers’ about its central murder. While the story is a period piece in the beloved British tradition, its strikingly modern themes of mental health, corruption, and sexual violence lend the proceedings both a sense of urgency and emotional weight. Although viewers have been left divided over the ways in which the script diverges from Christie’s original novel, this reviewer found that the series pays apt homage to the spirit of the original novel while still offering surprises for today’s viewers. Through its combination of classic mystery and modern psychological thriller Ordeal by Innocence is guaranteed to offer twists to satisfy Christie devotees and modern cinephiles alike.

Mommy Dearest

Christie’s tale of murder and malic is brilliantly realized thanks in large part to the work of the talented cast. Anna Chancellor is fascinating as the enigmatic Rachel and perfectly captures the cold charisma that draws others to her against their judgment. Bill Nighy turns in an understated but compelling performance as family patriarch, Leo. Crystal Clarke and Christian Cooke invoke sympathy as tortured siblings Tina and Mickey who share more than their mutual longing to escape their toxic family. Eleanor Tomlinson and Matthew Goode are compulsively watchable in their portrayal of the twisted codependent relationship between haughty eldest sister Mary and her disabled addict husband. Ella Purnell exhibits a childlike charm as wounded wild child Hester. Anthony Boyle is nothing short of magnetic in his turn as black sheep Jack. Luke Treadaway and Morven Christie lend the film its emotional core as Jack’s tormented alibi, Dr. Calgary, and the haunted housekeeper, Kirsten.

Ordeal by Innocence is a mystery that will continue to raise questions long after its shocking conclusion. Through its thought provoking script, engaging performances, and intriguing atmosphere the series is guaranteed to keep viewers guessing until its final reveal. A masterpiece of a mystery that shatters the PBS mod, Ordeal by Innocence is must watch television for the modern mystery buff. After starting this series audiences’ greatest ordeal will be tearing themselves away.

Murder by numbers

 

Classics: A Review of The Collection By Lauren Ennis

Personal scandal, political intrigue, and murder make for just another day at the office at the House of Sabine in The Collection. The nourish series follows the fictional fashion house as its staff maneuver the ruthless world of post-war couture in which high fashion equals even higher stakes. At once a sleek modern drama and a celebration of post-war noir the series stakes for viewing that will enthrall film buffs and casual viewers alike. Through its scathing script and razor sharp performances The Collection brings the ugly side of post-war fashion to life without ever being anything less than chic.

Beauty equals pain, and pain equals beauty

The series begins at the end of World War II as Paris slowly emerges from the shadow of occupation. Even as the city begins to recover, its once dominant fashion houses struggle to keep pace with an industry that has effectively moved on without them. The House of Sabine manages to rise above the fray, however, thanks to the innovative designs of Monsieur Sabine. The only problem is that the Monsieur Sabine designing the house’s collections is not Paul Sabine, whose name appears on the dress labels, but his reclusive brother, Claude. In an effort to secure the company’s image and protect Claude’s privacy the brothers agreed that the more business and media savvy Paul would be the store’s public face while Claude would work behind the scenes. When Claude begins to question his role in the company, however, Paul resorts to increasingly desperate and ruthless means to maintain his position both at the head of the House of Sabine and at the front of the reemerging Parisian fashion industry.

Inspired by the early days of Christian Dior and his 1950’s ‘new look’, The Collection is a fascinating journey into both the gritty streets of post-war Paris and the glamorous world of high fashion. Through the intertwining stories of the house’s staff the series expertly captures the ways in which France remained haunted by war-time trauma long after liberation. This is perhaps best captured in the contrasting stories of Jewish seamstress turned model Nina, who remains by the loss of her father during the Holocaust, and Paul, who lives under the constant threat of exposure for his war-time collaboration. Through these opposing storylines the series presents a wide spectrum of ways in which Parisians were impacted by and coped with Nazi occupation. The series also portrays the impact of World War II upon Parisian business with equal skill as it shows Paul’s struggles to sell high fashion to a population who are still struggling with a shattered economy. While the story provides viewers with a fascinating look at life in post-war Paris, perhaps its greatest strength is its exploration of the fashion industry at its most ferocious. Through its portrayal of the crosses, double-crossess, underhanded dealings, and deceptions that Sabine and his staff are constantly engaged in the series creates an image of the fashion world that makes the characters in The Devil Wears Prada look congenial. This journey into the industry’s underbelly lends the script a surprisingly contemporary feel as it trades in PBS charm for some of the grittiest period drama since Boardwalk Empire. As a result, the series remains true to its period setting while still maintaining the interest of today’s viewers.

The stuff that postcards are made of

The series brings the bleak streets of post-war Paris and the runways of high fashion to vivid life thanks to the work of its talented cast. Is brilliant in her performance as the tortured Nina (Jenna Thiam). Max Deacon makes for an endearing everyman as idealistic American photographer Billy. Frances de la Tour is wonderfully wicked in her turn as Paul and Claude’s ruthless mother, Yvette. Richard Coyle expertly captures Paul’s outward easy charm and inner ruthlessness with equal skill. Tom Riley steals each scene in which he appears as ingenious, but self-destructive, Claude.

A period piece with a contemporary twist, The Collection captures the best in today’s television trends. Through its intelligent script and excellent acting the series provides cutting edge entertainment that will appeal to classic noir connoisseurs and fans of contemporary drama alike. For a classic drama with contemporary style take a sample of The Collection.

One big back-stabbing family

Classics: A Review of Chocolat By Lauren Ennis

Delightful, decadent, and sweet are just a few of the words that apply equally to the delicacies at La Chocolaterie Maya and the film Chocolat. Part modern fairy-tale and part alternative morality tale this 2000 hit romantic comedy is every bit as light, irresistible, and satisfying as its title suggests. Through its easy charm the film serves up positive messages and entertainment in equal measure with a light touch that is never force-fed.

A divinely decadent comedy

The story begins with infectiously irreverent single mother Vianne (Juliette Binoche) arriving in a conservative French circa the late 1950's. The arrival of vivacious Vianne and her eccentric young daughter causes a stir in the staid town that threatens to erupt into scandal when she opens a chocolaterie in the midst of Lent. Despite the disapproval of the local church and the town's stodgy mayor, Comte de Reynaud (Alfred Molina), the shop begins drawing customers to its decadent wares and away from their Lenten vows. As time passes the town, is divided between the shop's free-thinking customers and its critics, with Vianne forced into a battle of wills with Reynaud. The ensuing conflict between chateau and chocolaterie reaches its breaking point with a final showdown on Easter morning that will decide the future of Vianne, her shop, and ultimately the town.

Beneath its whimsy Chocolat relates an inspiring tale with an emotional core that is never saccharine. Though its portrayal of the often comical conflict between Vianne and Reynaud the film offers a message of tolerance that proves surprisingly resonant at the film's conclusion. The script further reinforces its message through its depiction of the ways in which the townsfolk alienate Vianne, misunderstood battered wife Josephine, and Irish Traveler Roux. By showing the by turns subtle and blatant ways in which these diverse individuals face the same struggle for acceptance the script makes an apt case for tolerance, reminding us that looking, thinking, and behaving differently from us doesn't make someone wrong, it just makes them different from us. Through its endearing portrayals of outsiders Vianne and Roux and local eccentrics Josephine and Armande the film also highlights the importance of remaining true to ourselves and embracing all that makes us unique. While these same messages have been seen in countless films Chocolat's gentle approach and humor ensure that its familiar lessons remains as light and tempting as a fresh piece of chocolate.

The endearingly offbeat tale is brought to vibrant life with a charm that is nothing short of magic thanks to the work of its stellar cast. Judi Dench is a delight in her colorful turn as aging bohemian Armande. Lena Olin is endlessly engaging as she portrays Josephine's journey from vulnerable victim to resilient survivor. Johnny Depp exudes cool in his role as cynical Roux. Alfred Molina nearly steals the film in his uproarious turn as the riotously ridiculous Reynaud. Juliette Binoche carries the film with a charm reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn in her role as Vianne.

A modern fairy tale with the moral merit of a classic fable, Chocolat is good to its last drop. Through its witty script, endearing characters, and inspiring performances, the film is every bit as delightful, as the treats of its title. For deliciously good viewing try a taste of Chocolat.

Who's counting calories?!