LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE completed its epic love story of Tita and Pedro. It was definitely more intimate and lusty than the previous season. Passions were continually ignited between these star-crossed lovers. It was beautifully shared. The payoff at the finale exquisitely laid to rest the final pieces of this heartbreaking saga with grace, longing, and inspiration.
The power of LWFC lies in the blending of all our senses in the family kitchen while creating traditional Mexican meals and feasts. The imagined aromas seem to leap off the screen, filling our bellies with whatever delicious dish was being prepared. The intentional emotions were seared within our souls as well. It was a visceral reaction to whatever was happening within the story content and character arcs. I found myself in a different state of mind as I watched the ensemble release every inhibition. It was a slow-burning fire that seared each moment to perfection.
LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE is spoken in Spanish. It depicts the rich history of Mexico through its revolution and beyond to the late 1930’s. It entwined religious and spiritual beliefs. Viewers must suspend all disbelief while seeing the dead continually reappear, as well as accepting the final, fiery frames. It is a tale well-known, beloved, and a visual delight.
I am not sure if LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE is for everyone. It moves at glacial speed, but it is also brilliantly written within these parameters. It gave me nope for those who have ever loved, but because of family circumstances, poverty, society’s proper rules, and war, they could not be together. Patience was imperative at every step. It was a magnificent journey that will be retold through the cherished pages of a special recipe book for generations yet to come.
It is streaming on HBO MAX.
