Linda's Magical Realism in Like Water for Chocolate

The article on magical realism was very interesting. To think it began in Latin America to express the American mentality and then went on to be an independent style. This film certainly represents this literary mode. The explanation of themes was most curious to me. There are multiple examples of this in the film. The idea of soldiers as an authority figure was noted in the scene where they attacked Tita's home and brutally assaulted the kitchen helper.

The cyclic aspect of time destined to repeat itself was expressed through the constant desire for Pedro and Tita to be together. They dreamed of life joined as one but the reality of it never happened. It was as if a better life was not to be attained.

The concept of carnival, celebrating the body, senses and relationships was heavily portrayed in this film. Food was a major focus. The affects of the special chilies on the body and soul was both humorous and very poignant in showing magical realism. Everyone became passionate and out of control with their emotions as they enjoyed the family recipe. Most striking was her sister escaping with the Mexican soldier in a terror of love.

I really liked the onion theme being repeated. Tita started out in the kitchen chopping onions and the niece ended the film with onions. What was not able to happen for Tita; a life of love without the constraint of caring for her mother till death, did occur for her cherished niece.

Food and the psychological reaction was repeated during the cake baking scene. Tita was heartbroken that her older sister was going to marry her boyfriend because tradition dictated this order and she was to care for mother. She dutifully agreed to prepare the wedding banquet but while making the cake batter she cried profusely. So, as the wedding guests ate the cake they began to cry uncontrollably.

The traditions and wise tales of the culture were stated and brought forth. In the end the matches she consumed ignited the inner sole of Tita; and, the explosion of the divine nature joined she and Pedro into eternal bliss. His dying, then her joining him, was like that of Romeo and Juliet.

Fascinating film, humorous and informative of the Latino culture.