Chocolat Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Chocolat" presents an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in the 1.78:1 aspect ratio, maintaining the film's inherently soft and diffused image. This characteristic dream-like fuzziness is evident throughout the presentation, aligning with the source material’s whimsical aesthetic. While such softness might be perceived as a drawback, it is faithful to the original visual intention of the movie and not indicative of an inferior transfer. The color palette remains slightly drab and desaturated at moments, though it is notably more vibrant than the previous DVD release.

The transfer has some inconsistencies where a couple of sharp scenes occasionally emerge, particularly in the chocolate shop, contrasting with the generally soft outdoor scenes. Black levels are functional but lighter than usual for Blu-ray standards, with evident crushing in darker scenes and occasional digital noise. Fine detail work, thus, fluctuates; close-ups reveal adequate facial and textural details while mid-range photography lacks the clarity typically associated with high-definition formats.

Despite these anomalies, including minor issues with crushing and digital noise spikes in dimly-lit scenes, the remainder of the presentation, such as banding and aliasing, has been well managed. While it doesn't deliver the high-def pop ideal for contemporary releases, this Blu-ray accurately captures the film's intended charm. Fans should find this edition a faithful representation of the movie’s visual style.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track for "Chocolat" provides an elegantly rendered audio experience that complements the film's whimsical yet somber narrative. Rachel Portman's evocative score is flawlessly distributed around the soundfield, offering an immersive musical experience that adds depth to the storytelling. The dialogue is crystal clear and precise, ensuring that every spoken word is easily understood. Surround channels are expertly utilized to create directionality that enhances the viewing experience, such as the north wind effect, which filters compellingly through the channels, adding to the film’s atmospheric charm.

The track achieves an appealing spaciousness despite the film's setting in the small French village, balancing dialogue, sound effects, and score with finesse. While the film lacks bombastic special effects, the careful crafting of sound elements ensures fidelity and dynamic range that are exemplary. The mix expertly handles LFE, subtly engaging it during more intense scenes like the fire, without overwhelming the viewer. Overall, this audio presentation may not dazzle with high-octane effects but excels in presenting an authentic and finely tuned auditory landscape, staying true to the film’s intent.

The Blu-ray release of "Chocolat" boasts a selection of extras that comprehensively delve into the filmmaking process. Particularly notable is “The Making of Chocolat,” which offers an insightful exposition on adapting the original novel through interviews with key cast and crew members. The costume design featurette provides a succinct yet informative view of Renee Ehrlich Kalfus’ work. Meanwhile, the production design segment highlights the crucial contributions of David Gropman in realizing the film’s aesthetic. The audio commentary, featuring director Lasse Hallstrom and producers David Brown, Kit Golden, and Leslie Holleran, combines a balanced mixture of technical insights and thematic exploration, making it essential for fans. Finally, the deleted scenes include intriguing character developments, especially for Lena Olin’s character.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Making of Chocolat: Insightful exposition on adapting the novel, featuring interviews with cast and crew.
• The Costumes of Chocolat: Overview of Renee Ehrlich Kalfus' costume designs.
• Production Design Featurette: Examination of the film's look, focusing on location and production design by David Gropman.
• Deleted Scenes: Additional character moments, notably for Lena Olin’s role.
• Audio Commentary: Director Lasse Hallstrom and producers engage in a lively discussion on the film’s themes and production.

Chocolat, directed by Lasse Hallström, immerses viewers in the whimsical and enchanting narrative of a free-spirited chocolatier, Vianne Rocher (Juliette Binoche), who stirs up a conservative French village during Lent. The movie, set in the late 1950s, is a charming tale that explores themes of repression, spiritual liberation, and the irresistible allure of chocolate. Binoche delivers a captivating performance as Vianne, countering the rigid town's authority embodied by Alfred Molina’s Comte de Reynaud, whose character's staunch religiosity and desire for control provide a rich counterpoint to Vianne's disruptive charm. Johnny Depp’s portrayal of Roux adds an intriguing dynamic despite feeling slightly out of place in tone and casting.

Hallström crafts an almost dreamlike ambiance that sustains the magical feeling from the opening scenes. This ethereal quality juxtaposes the predictable narrative arc, with Vianne's confectionery expertise symbolizing a wider theme of human liberation. The supporting cast enhances this fantastical element, with Judi Dench, Carrie-Anne Moss, and Lena Olin providing depth through their distinct characters. Leslie Caron also contributes memorable moments that reflect the film's underlying message: the dismantling of dogmatic structures through individual kindness and indulgence.

While Chocolat tends to delve into clichéd territory during its third act, it ultimately retains its charm through unparalleled sweetness and emotional resonance. The film navigates significant social issues with a light touch, making it as delightful as a well-crafted bonbon. By blending whimsy with moralistic undertones, Hallström ensures that Chocolat maintains an appealing gentleness and memorable impact, much like a childhood dessert that lingers fondly in one’s memory.

Chocolat crafts a charming and evocative tale set against the backdrop of changing social mores and interpersonal relationships. Directed by Lasse Hallström, this film features an outstanding cast led by Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp, who deliver particularly compelling performances that salvage some of the more predictable aspects of the plot. Viewed through a slightly whimsical lens, Chocolat deftly balances realistic narrative elements with fable-like qualities, making it an engaging watch for a broad audience. The production design deserves special mention, as it successfully transports viewers to a vividly enchanting French village.

On the technical side, the Blu-ray release of Chocolat presents a noticeable improvement over the DVD in terms of audio and video quality, albeit with some caveats. The image quality, while an upgrade, remains somewhat soft and may not fully satisfy the expectations of discerning videophiles accustomed to sharper visuals. The audio presentation is competent, offering an accurate representation of the film’s soundscape without being particularly groundbreaking. Special features are minimal but cover essential aspects, providing a decent overview without delving deeply into the making of the film.

It's rather interesting that Lionsgate is releasing new Blu-rays of Chocolat and Amélie on the same day, for despite their apparent differences, the two share certain similarities. Both are cast in a fable-like way, and both feature heroines who go around fixing things right and left. But while Amélie exults in its magical fantasy world, Chocolat tries to tread a somewhat more realistic path, to fitful results. Some of this film is too predictable for its own good, but ultimately the film overcomes its slight issues to deliver a really beautifully realized and surprisingly emotional look at changing mores and interpersonal relationships. The cast here is what saves the material, and it's a stellar cast indeed. The production design is also incredibly evocative, and while some aspects of the film may strike some as silly, overall Chocolat is as tasty as its titular candy. This Blu-ray is an improvement on the DVD, but it still offers a pretty soft image which may bother some videophiles. Nonetheless, this release is Recommended.