← Ratatouille

a review of 美食总动员

Movie · Review

Ratatouille (2007)

After quite some time, I went back to watch Ratatouille, having seen it for the twelfth time already, and somehow each time, it manages to unveil new shades of meaning. Much more than being Pixar's most elaborate film, this is a rich dialogue on desire, art, and the way to truly exist. The graphical representation remains totally awesome. Never did we see Paris so beautiful, and the kitchen fragments depict the incredible chaos of professional cooking with such a strong sense of reality. It is, however, the emotional core that makes it more than merely technical excellence. Gusteau's belief that "anyone can cook" goes beyond simply talking about food - it is a matter of potential, passion, and smashing through artificial constructs. Every time I watch it, his quote touches my heart: "Not everyone can become a great artist, but a great artist can come from anywhere." This thought has really opened my eyes to alternative ways of looking at my artistic endeavors and at the talent of others. The connection between Remy and Linguini quite tell the story of learning and growth, the synonyms involved - companionship and vulnerability that are essential for co-creation. There is a soft but deep place where these two outliers meet and thus create a wonderful product together. Anton Ego's parting speech still stands out as one of the strongest in animation history - a consummate expression of critique, creation, and bravery that I repeatedly find myself quoting in times of need. This movie has actually changed my outlook on life for the better. It is a reminder that with risks comes excellence, that true passion requires honesty, and that it is sometimes the most impossible way that is the only way to achieve. A perfect film that keeps feeding me with good stuff every time I see it. Ratatouille is one of my utmost favorite movies of all time. Even if you have watched it, I highly recommend it to you.