Simple Pleasure Sunday: Watching Chocolat

I adore the film Chocolat. It is a tradition of mine to view it around Lent, which is when the movie takes place. This year, as an Amazon Prime member, I watched it for free on my laptop Monday evening. Sometimes, life can be tough, so watching it took my mind off some awful news for a bit that day. I am grateful. Even though I love this masterpiece, it’s surprisingly not one of the seven DVDs I own. It should be the eighth.

This film follows Vianne (Juliette Binoche) and her daughter Anouk who are non-conformist gypsies. The pair move to a traditional French town governed by a strict mayor and open a chocolate shop. Their impact upon the townspeople is revolutionary. It’s wonderful that the character development is so strong. I don’t even have a favorite part as I love it all! Chocoholic that I am, all the different varieties of chocolate are such a visual pleasure. Plus, I truly adore how Vianne charms everyone. I also have always been a fan of Johnny Depp, who plays a pirate or “River Rat” named Roux and is the one who impacts Vianne’s life for a change. I love all the transformation. The messages of the film such as savoring simple pleasures, kindness, and happiness reflect some of my most deeply held values. I highly recommend this enchanting movie. Now is the perfect time to watch it!

I will be in Delaware celebrating my grandmother’s 91st birthday this afternoon and evening. Whether your Valentine’s Day is filled with love for a sweetheart, yourself, friends or family like me, I truly hope you enjoy this special day.