Background:  “Like Water for Chocolate” is a 1992 film based on the award-winning novel of the same name.  To get the most out of the film, be aware of something called Magical Realism.  Magical realism is a theme that became popular in Latin American literature in the mid 20th century.  For story tellers who embrace magical realism, magic, spirits, and other forces are part of everyday reality.  In other words, they are real!  As you watch the film, take note how magical realism is a key part of the story telling.

Much of the story takes place in the age of the Mexican Revolution.  The revolution and changes in Mexican society are part of the backdrop of the story.

The family in the story are relatively wealthy landowners.  A kind of racial hierarchy is also part of the story.  Keep in mind the history of the racial hierarchy in Mexico as you watch the film.  

Prompt:  You film analysis should address the following questions. 

How does the film reveal issues of family obligation, gender roles, and racial hierarchy in early 20th century Mexico? How does magical realism play a key role in the story? Which scenes in the film are the most important and why?  Conclude your paper with a paragraph on the end of the film.  What do you think of the ending and why?