In 1992, Alfonso Arau broke all the rules of traditional Latin American cinema. Like water for chocolateadaptation of the work of the same name by Laura Esquivel. The result was an atypical, romantic and exciting film that marked an era in the cinema of the continent. But more than that, it opened the door to a kind of exploration of fantasy, magical realism, and love that is surprising in its depth and sensitivity. Thirty-two years later, the series, created by Salma Hayek, picks up the baton and takes it to the next level in a series of six history-changing chapters. books reflecting on love and freedom.
The plot of the production is essentially the same as in the feature film. The story takes place in early 20th century Mexico, which is deeply classist and conservative. The story explores the life of Tita (Azul Guaita), the youngest daughter of a wealthy family. But the De la Garzas, in addition to being landowners in a country on the cusp of a historical revolution, are members of a wealthy local aristocracy with their own rules and customs. So widowed matriarch Elena (Irene Azuela) raises her family to follow tradition to the letter. Something that calls Gertrudis (Andrea Chaparro), Rosaura (Ana Valeria Becerril) and Tita, that is.They learn to obey, even at the cost of their happiness.
All of the above becomes the most difficult part of the plot when Tita falls in love with Pedro Muzquiz (Andres Baida). Moreover, for the character, love is more than forbidden. Not only does she not have the right to choose her future husband, like her sisters, but in her case she cannot lay claim to a family. This is because Doña Elena decided that the youngest of her daughters would take care of her in her old age. In the midst of a similar scenario, the woman’s family will face pressure the explosive political situation in the country and the demands of a sexist culture.
Like water for chocolate
Like water for chocolate, he adapts Laura Esquivel’s work of the same name into a historical drama with magical overtones, highlighted by a detailed and well-structured script. The story, spanning a quarter of a century, uses elegant visuals to explore the magical realism of Latin America. And also in romantic relationships from an honest and sensitive point of view. The result is a touching and sensitive work of high quality.
Magic comes through the kitchen
But while the story may seem traditional, it’s actually the perfect setting for traditional Latin American magical realism. From the very first scene in which Tita is born amid a river of tears, to the way she narrates her youthful love for Pedro. The script by Jimena Gallardo, Maria Jaen and Curro Royo emphasizes the mystery. Moreover, it transforms everything surrounding love into a fantasy that turns all the episodes into little meditations on fate and hope. Like water for chocolate It’s a love story, but at the same time, also a sensitive meditation on beauty, the passage of time and transcendence.
Director Julian de Tavira and Ana Lorena Pérez Rios pay homage to both the book, entire parts of which are adapted almost verbatim, and even Arau’s film. What makes the series a journey through a variety of moments that mingle in legendary territory: the kitchen. It is between the stove and juicy, perfectly prepared dishes that Tita finds her only form of self-expression. What the series highlights is transforming each ingredient and everything presented in a spectacle of color and music.
Most of the personality Like water for chocolateis based on the script’s ability to provide a realistic context for its directly magical dimension. This combination makes the series simultaneously exciting, gritty and brutal in its darkest aspects. With more time to delve into the original story, the plot also carefully develops its characters. From a more complex and moving version of Tita than what ended up in the movies, to a deep and honest reflection on adult love. The truth is that the production combines different points of view with relevance and common sense.
Unforgettable characters from legendary history
But first of all, Like water for chocolate This is a love story. Moreover, one, complex, difficult and lasted almost a quarter of a century. This is something that the series takes into account when giving due attention to its main characters. Tita and Pedro don’t just grow together as a couple. Moreover, the actors provide both subdued need and emotion that deepens as the story progresses. Much of the argument then is based on the chemistry between the two. And also in the tragic fatality that accompanies them.
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However, the directors realize that the series is much more than a drama. In this way, they make the most difficult moments more kind and even humorous. If there’s one thing the story appreciates, it’s its ability to be as romantic as it is frontal in its exploration of major themes. Something that allows the story to be both a critique of masculinity and the social pressures placed on it.Women like a curious version, very close to the fantasy of happiness.
Of course, for a story whose heart is in the kitchen. The film takes time and interest to show Tita’s domain as a territory far removed from pain and fear. Then the direction becomes a festival of colors and details. In this way, the ingredients create an almost sensual atmosphere in all their beauty. One of the series’ greatest successes is its ability to be immersive and dreamlike. This, without straying too far from what Tita has to suffer – and therefore the reason for their delicious dishes—and the lives beyond their capable hands.
An excellent adaptation of a favorite work
Both in its ability to express magical realism through well-made and better choreographed scenes, and in its elegant plot. Like water for chocolate It’s also moving because it captures the best of the original story. This is in the form of a complex work in visual and tonal parts, well executed and told in detail, about love and its secrets.
As such, the series is both an adaptation of the famous book and a celebration of a story beloved by generations of fans. It is a visual and narrative delight. As tragic romance has become a way to delve deeper into hope, the series strives to be emotional while avoiding the banal. Which also makes it a tribute to a way to talk about love, wonder and finding purpose. Your best case scenario.
Source: Hiper Textual
