The Mistress of Spices Reviews

• Charming tale of love & magic

  
  By A1I477ADGMLVJM on 2007-06-09
  Came across this by sheer accident and I'm very grateful for it.
  
  "Mistress of Spices" is a nice cross between "Bell, Book, & Candle" and "Like Water for Chocolate", with a dash of "Practical Magic". The rules are the same the Heroine maintains her powers and influence over the lives of others though selflessness and the manipulation of food stuffs. However to fall in love will result in negative consequences.
  
  Arguably the main character of the movie is the Spice Bazaar itself. The set is lush in color and design, it is so remarkable that while watching the movie you might feel as though you are standing right in the middle of it and will begin to imagine the scent of all the combined spices.
  
  Aishwarya Rai's natural radiance gives Tilo a gentle warmth that conveys a concern for others with very little effort and it's nice to see Dylan McDermott return to playing a handsome romantic lead who combines sensuality with respect. The two leads are charming, classy and beautiful, the story is stimulating and dreamy in quality compared to so many other romance movies which leave nothing to the imagination.
  
  For a soothing and vibrant viewing experince, a bit of romance, and a touch of class with a satisfying ending. This movie is highly recommended - especially for repeat viewings, the Spice Bazaar is a pleasant place to visit.
  
  

• "Everyone Has A Spice" ~ An Intoxicating Fragrance To Be Absorbed As Much As Viewed

  
  By A141HP4LYPWMSR on 2007-06-16
  The rather obscure '05 release 'The Mistress of Spices' is a wonderfully engaging romance filled with magic and Hindu mysticism that caught my full attention from the beginning and carried me transfixed to the end. Aishwarya Rai and Dylan McDermott make an endearing couple trying to not only bridge the cultural gap between the two but also overcome the mystical connection between the beautiful Tilo (Aishwarya) and the exotic spices that fill her shop.
  
  The key to the success or failure of this film is Aisharya's ability to make her spice store appear a magical space where she communicates with the fragrant essences surrounding her and exude a mystical essence about herself and her sacred duty as Spice Mistress. She does a magnificent job at both.
  
  A rare treat awaits the unsuspecting viewer, I can't wait to watch it again!
  
  
  

• Old and New World co-exist

  
  By A2SRHV1EV975E1 on 2007-06-21
  This movie was a delight to watch. It's simple presentation of tradition and the power it holds trying to bond with the here and now. It shows that you can hold on to your beliefs and values and still find happiness. Beautifully acted.............camera work wonderful.......director did a great job.
  
  

• Like semi-sweet "Chocolat"

  
  By A34X9EZTTQR7R7 on 2007-06-21
  Love is the greatest catalyst for the promotion of foolish behavior. Characters in cinema contemplate separation from clan, loss of godlike powers, abandonment of immortality, or risk divine wrath all for a chance to taste the sweetness of love. When the character's object of affection morphs into a couch-potato with a taste for domestic beer, such sacrifices lose their romantic luster. Worse, should our movie heroes obtain a smattering of physiologic training and realize that love is less destiny and more chemical reaction, true anhedonia may result. Thankfully, most dramas roll their credits long before real life sets in for our protagonists.
  
  Tilo (Aishwarya Rai) is a winsome maiden from India, taken in at a young age by a practitioner of spice magic, after being orphaned at the hands of vicious bandits who craved usage of her mystical abilities. Her parents killed, Tilo has little choice but to accept tutelage from the spice crone, who offers training towards attainment of the title "Mistress of Spices." The only caveats: a Mistress of Spices can never love, can never physically touch another human being, and may never leave the confines of her shop. Tilo is magically transported to San Francisco, where she soon becomes an indispensable fount of beneficent advice for her many patrons. She is indispensable, that is, until an accidental meeting with Doug (Dylan McDermott)--a scruffy local architect with a confusing life-story--complicates her loyalties, corrupts her magic powers, and threatens the destruction of her very identity.
  
  Director Paul Mayeda Berges ("Bend it Like Beckham," "Bride & Prejudice") teams up again with the stunning Ms. Rai to create yet another "controversial" biracial-romance-based movie. His cinematography is like the spices themselves: enticing, surprising, varied, and rich. The layered, subtle musical score is right on the money and perfect for underscoring scenes representing wanton temptation, lost innocence, guilt made manifest, and happy resolutions of Spielburgian proportion. Aishwarya is widely regarded as the most beautiful woman in the world--after this movie, I believe this is stated about her less for her physical beauty, than for the way she carries herself with the perfect combination of regal poise and submissive enticement. She is a skilled actress ("Umrao Jaan" is one of her best), but can accomplish little with this childish dialogue and snicker-worthy plot. Mr. McDermott likewise struggles mightily with his kindergarten lines, a ridiculous motorcycle helmet, and a character back-story which frankly defies description. The chemistry is just not there between these two actors, no matter their skill. The story is just too silly--angry spices punishing Tilo for her disobedience? Come now--even incensed chocolate is far more believable. The dialogue is representative of stuff you may have observed scrawled on bathroom-stall doors when considering grammatical standards. I felt like screaming every time Rai began a sentence imploring the source of her powers for guidance thus: "Please spices..."
  
  However, the story is not valueless, as many aspects of Indian culture are touched upon lightly within this movie. The rather lopsided Asian expectation regarding preservation of virtue within the female ranks is tangentially regarded by Tilo's own story, and within the subplot concerning Geeta--a side character played by supermodel Padma Lakshmi--who falls for a man of Hispanic descent. Consideration for the wishes of family in the Indian household is likewise demonstrated, both in Tilo's need to appease her "spices," and in Geeta's grandfather's wish for Geeta to respect tradition. Those few movie-goers who are satisfied with eye-candy only will find themselves thrilled by the marvelous cinematography, beautiful Rai, handsome McDermott, and/or the "rose-bed" found in a later scene (which I found most stunning).
  
  Overall, the movie is not memorable, and is a pale shadow of the earlier Johnny Depp vehicle, the title of which is found within my review-description. It quite obviously borrows most of its inspiration from "Chocolat." Rent if you are a die-hard fan of McDermott, Rai, or the director, or if you desire a "Hindi" film without all that singing and dancing.
  
  

• much better than i expected

  
  By A20KTA7MX9C9SQ on 2007-06-05
  Aishwarya Rai's acting leaves a lot to be desired-- it's not at all bad, just not terribly notable. However, she plays this role with a kind of innocence and charm that make certain scenes that could be hokey, really pleasent to watch. She & Dylan McDermott have very good chemistry. The film is sexy and sensual all the way through. The back-story is a bit flimsy, but let's face it-- we're not watching this movie for the character's past, but for their present. Visually, it's stunning. Loved the saris, loved the mis-en-scene of the spice shop. Well done.
  
  
• a spicy (and savory) English language introduction to Aishwarya Rai......
  By ADS5APY1NKTL4 on 2007-09-29
  I am a great fan of the beautiful Aishwarya Rai, a well established and respected Bollywood actress in India, who is making the transition to English language films in the United States. I had seen her United States debut, BRIDE AND PREJUDICE, which, in all honesty, left me cold. I was hoping that THE MISTRESS OF SPICES (originally released in 2005 in the United States) would be a more enjoyable and engaging American made Rai film. I am happy to say that it was.
  
  Tilo (Rai) is a beautiful young woman with a great gift for seeing into people's desires and determining what spice would bring them the most fulfillment and well being. Tilo settles in San Francisco and opens a spice shop, where she brings her gift to her customers, who flock to her store in droves. You can almost smell the cardamom, mustard seed and chili peppers that light up the scenes between Tilo and her loyal patrons. Her world is turned on its head, upon the arrival of Doug, a handsome architect (Dylan McDermott) who walks through the door of her shop. According to her training as a mistress of spices, Tilo must never look to the spices to fulfill desires of her own and must uphold the code of selflessness and generosity toward all who cross her path. Yet, the attraction between her and Doug is mutual and undeniable.
  
  Some have compared MISTRESS OF SPICES to CHOCOLAT, another film that featured a mysterious and beautiful stranger with a strong sixth sense and a flair for devising recipes to cure and improve the lives of others. I think this film is far better. It's beautiful, unpretentious and lovely to look at. What's more, Rai lights up the screen and the chemistry between her and Dylan McDermott is very believable. Bon apetit!
  
  
• This Spice Girl Needs More
  By A1JV4QKTEB7QBL on 2007-06-30
  Like the novel of the same name by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, this little film follows the same charming "in-food-there-is-magic" formula found in cult classic films "Chocolat" and "Like Water for Chocolate." In "The Mistress of Spices," director Paul Mayeda Berges moves the audience out of the realm of the French or Mexican village and gives it a glimpse of the slightly exotic world of the Indian immigrant outside of San Francisco. Unfortunately, although the film overloads the senses with its visual perfection---the colorful heapings of spices glorify each set with an appeal that enables the audience to almost feel the textures and enjoy their fragrances---the storyline fails to deliver that ultimate feel for the supernatural that rendered "Chocolat" so uniquely memorable. Lacking continuity and a palpable chemistry between the lead characters, its loveliness wears as thin and transparent as an Indian sari.
  
  Tilo, played by the incredibly exquisite Aishwarya Rai (a former Miss World,) trains from childhood in the magical arts; her gift allows her to discern problems and desires in her patrons' lives and recommend an appropriate spice to alleviate their pain. Her placement in the New World comes with some inflexible restrictions: she must never use the spices to help herself, she can never touch another's skin and she can never leave the confines of the Spice Bazaar that houses the tools of her trade.
  
  When a handsome (and barely shaved) Dylan McDermott equipped with a prerequisite bad-boy motorcycle enters her life, the magic of the spices seems to abandon our Spice Girl. Tilo experiences a crisis of conscience as she struggles to adhere to the promises she has made and yet live a life that fulfills her own desires.
  
  Bottom line? "Mistress of Spices" provides at least 90 minutes of colorful romantic entertainment that although not truly remarkable would definitely brighten up a rainy afternoon. Aishwarya Rai's flawless beauty in conjunction with the rows and rows of rainbow spices creates an almost magic that keeps the viewer watching and hoping for that "more" that unfortunately never comes. Recommended to those who enjoy the slightly unexplained stories of Joanne Harris and Alice Hoffman.
  Diana Faillace Von Behren
  "reneofc"
  
  
  
  
• "Are you ready to give up your own lives forever...for the spices?"
  By A2HVL790PBWYTU on 2007-05-27
  Coincidentally enough, Tilo is named for the sesame seed, the spice of nourishment. From an early age, Tilo has been special, being gifted with second sight, although that wasn't enough to prevent a fatal tragedy from befalling her family. Tilo ends up in the care of an ancient Indian woman who instructs her and other young female students in the mystical ways of the spices. Tilo proves to be an apt pupil. When a girl is ready, she is dispatched to wherever she is most needed in the world. In Tilo's case, it's San Francisco. She sets up her Spice Bazaar shop in the Bay area and begins to dispense her spices to her patrons. Her rapport with the spices enables her to determine her customer's deepest needs and, thus, she is able to administer the proper potion and remedy (holy basil for memory, cinnamon for making friends, black cumin seeds for warding off the evil eye, etc.).
  
  Her magical powers, though, come at a price as she must abide by three rules: she can never use the spices for own desires; she cannot leave the store; and she cannot touch anyone. As her teacher had sternly warned, "If a mistress fails her duty, the spices will punish her." So Tilo lives in quiet solitude even as she ably and selflessly serves her clientele. Until, that is, a handsome architect has a motorcycle accident in front of her shop...
  
  The gorgeous Aishwarya Rai is a global star and is a phenomenon in her native India, but she isn't as well known here in the States. THE MISTRESS OF SPICES re-introduces her to the Western audience as she makes another bid to cross over, although, make no mistake, her allegiance is firmly to Indian cinema. But, yes, it's nice to stretch. She did really well with the well-received BRIDE AND PREJUDICE. She's also got the forthcoming THE LAST LEGION, which co-stars Colin Firth (crossing my fingers for that one). But, back to THE MISTRESS OF SPICES...
  
  There's something so very sensuous about a girl indulging in tactile contact with her exotic spices. And when it's Aishwarya running her fingers thru a heap of sesame seeds, well, the hotness factor elevates by quite a bit. The photography work treats us to a delectable sight of herbs and spices (not to mention Aish herself) awash in glorious, lush colors. THE MISTRESS OF SPICES is lovely to look at. But here's the thing, I expected more from the film and more from Aishwarya. And, yes, maybe it's because I've seen the sublime Chocolat (Miramax Collector's Series) and the sumptuous Like Water for Chocolate, both of which also indulge in magical realism, so comparisons are inevitable. Like those two films, this one also falls into the same sub-genre in that it links foods with sensory delights (I mean, holy smokes, check out an artistically semi-nude Aishwarya lolling about on a bed of chile.). But, of the three films, this one, unfortunately, is the least.
  
  Aishwarya is luminous, but her performance is bogged down with an excess of exposition. Her character provides the film voice-over and she also has a tendency to talk to her spices, of whom only the chiles seem to be responsive (think of the chiles as her disapproving uncle). While I believe Aish's acting is solid enough, she isn't given nearly enough to do. Meanwhile, Dylan McDermott is just plain inadequate as a leading man and has zero chemistry with Aishwarya. I found his character's backstory to be truly boring. Also, after a while, claustrophobia sets in as most of the scenes insist on taking place within her tiny shop. The film does invest some needed screen time on Tilo's customers, which include Haroun the cabbie and the tradition-minded grandfather, both of whom are likable. So, yeah, that was good.
  
  I consider Aish to be the most beautiful woman in the world. If cast in the right role and with the proper director, she has the acting talent to shine (Want proof? See Devdas (2 Disc Set), Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, and Raincoat). Unfortunately, her career's been undermined by several less than stellar feature films, and this one is well on its way to being placed in that category. THE MISTRESS OF SPICES is brought to you by the same folks who collaborated on Bend It Like Beckham (Widescreen Edition) and Bride and Prejudice, which are excellent. So what happened? Well, another flaw here is that one of the collaborators, screen writer Paul Mayeda Berges, chooses this film to make his directing debut. I can't help but think that MISTRESS... would've greatly benefited if Berges's wife, the higher profiled Gurinder Chadha, had instead been at the helm. At 95 minutes long, there's a dichotomy here in that this shorter film seems to actually be longer in length than her normal two-and-a-half hour long Bollywood ventures. Most of the plodding film constitutes Tilo tiringly moping and pleading with her spices. Ultimately, there's just something lifeless and decidedly lacking here, a missing ingredient. I dunno, maybe an energetic Bollywood musical number should've been thrown in to spice things up. So, a disappointed two and half stars for this one.
  
  By the way, the special features aren't so special, having only a paltry three and a half minute long "Making Of" segment and a movie trailer.
  
  
  
• Magic, Love & Romance
  By A3AOKQCH0YBZDS on 2007-06-26
  I enjoyed reading the book, Mistress of Spices and also enjoyed the movie as well! Aishwarya Rai does a wonderful job of acting as usual and nails the character of Tilo perfectly.
  
  I liked the idea of mystery, humility & humbleness of Tilo's character... Her purpose in life is to use her knowledge of the spices to help benefit the needs of those whom need her most. Tilo's life seems to be one of self service and self sacrifice for she is to never use the spices for her own benefit, dreams, and desires. She is to never leave the shop that holds her spices, nor touch another human being ever.
  
  Tilo seems content with her life as Mistress of Spices and helping others achieve their needs and desires.... That is until she meets Doug, an architect (a lost soul if you), and feels instantly attracted to him and vice versa. Tilo knows she must not fall in love with him and does almost everything to dissuade him from falling in love for him.
  
  The spices become angered with Tilo's desire to be with Doug and Tilo has consequences to pay for angering the spices. Does Tilo forsake the spices to be with Doug or does she forsake him for the spices? Or can she find room in her life for both "Love" and the "Spices"? Watch the movie and see!
  
  
  
• A charming film, nonetheless...but I was expecting something more
  By ACVFTS9X2MKJ8 on 2007-05-23
  I'm always happy to see Bollywood (Indian) movie stars come to do american-made movies. To see Aishwarya Rai paired up with Dylan McDermott sounded like it would be a great film, but this story was pretty weak. Not terrible, but I'm use to Aishwarya Rai working with a larger budget and a more detailed story. They could have done more to embellish this film. Maybe a couple of little sub-stories within the film would have helped this film be something more. They tried to compare this to "Chocolat" but this film is nowheres near as intricate as that film or any other remote love story with a hint of mystique.
  
  I'm glad I saw this first instead of just running out to buy it. I love Aishwarya Rai along with many of the other beautiful actresses from India's Bollywood. However, I still think that "Bride and Prejudice" and "Bend it Like Beckham" were more detailed and entertaining than this one.
  
  But every Aishwarya Rai fan should at least see this one. It's nice to hear her speaking English on film. That puts her at a lesser distance than all her other films that I have of her.
  
  If you want to see some really good movies with Aishwarya Rai, look into these films: "Mohabbatein", "Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam", "Dhaai Akshar Prem Ke", and one of her biggest films called "Devdas" with Aishwarya Rai, Madhuri Dixit, and Shahrukh Khan.
  
  I have about a four dozen favorite Indian actresses. I wish more of these actresses would come over a do English speaking american films. Just a few of my favorite Bollywood actresses are: Rani Mukherjee, Urmila Matondkar, Sonali Bendre, Priyanka Chopra, Amisha Patel, Kareena Kapoor, Karishma Kapoor, Sushmita Sen, and even current news-worthy Shilpa Shetty. I don't blame Richard Gere for wanting to grab and kiss Shilpa Shetty like he did. I probably would have done that too. She too, is so beautiful, and she has a beautiful heart.
  
  Anyway, come on all you Bollywood girls. We need more pretty faces here in american films. Plus we need the innocence of your Hindi charms. Even many of you Indian guys should come over and exploit yourself with the american audience. There's big money over here for you too.
  
  I know american girls will go nuts over Hrithik Roshan, Shahrukh Khan, John Abraham, Vivek Oberoi, Bobby Deol, Ajay Devgan, Aamir Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Salman Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, etc. etc. People can go to IndiaFM.com and find pictures of these Indian stars and others (I collect a new wallpaper of a star everyday), or you can go to YouTube and enter some of their names to see if they have some video clips (usually you'll see some dance scenes or interviews) from these stars.
  
  My first Indian film was "Lagaan". Everyone curious about Indian films should rent that one and see how you like Bollywood entertainment. The whole family can watch and enjoy Bollywood films. Most of them have songs just like any Walt Disney film. But Bollywood films are so much more sexier when they break into a song and dance.
  
  So, if you can, rent the Bollywood blockbusters, "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" and "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham" and, of course, Aishwarya Rai's "Mohabbatein" and "Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam" (also known as "Straight From the Heart"). Once you see just a couple of these films, you'll be hooked on Indian films.
  
  
• [3.5]--The Mistress of Spices will forever be locked up in her store.
  By A3C6CZC2JP67VK on 2007-06-27
  I thought this was a good afternoon flick. The good part is that unlike their earlier films that were Indianized as "Football Shootball Hai Rabba" (Bend it like Beckhem) and "Balle Balle Amritsar to LA" (Bride and Prejudice), Gurinder and Paul have not renamed "Mistress of Spices" as "Masalo ki Mallika" or something likewise. That's because thankfully this time they didn't attempt to dub the film in Hindi thereby maintaining the essence of the spices. This fairy-tale fable fits the format of the cross-culture foreign film. Thankfully it doesn't get preachy or blatant on Indian cultures or values but rather used the spices as the connection to India.
  
  You might have read about astrology, numerology, gemology and stuff. This film introduces spice-o-logy whereby our spice girl Tilo (Aishwarya Rai) who runs a spice bazaar in San Francisco can foresee fortunes of her customers with the help of the spices she sells in her store. The art of spicology also says that there is a particular spice for every personality and every problem. Through these spices, Tilo solves the problems of her customers. But then like any secret art, this one also has some rules. Tilo cannot use the spice for her own benefit. She cannot allow anybody to touch her. And finally she cannot leave the spice store. But then obviously rules are meant to be broken. And when she breaks all the rules for a guy Doug (Dylan McDermott) who she falls for, the spices get angry on her and break havoc. As a punishment to Tilo the spices make her customers suffer. Now Tilo has to either go back to the spices or leave them for love. And in the climax she has to give an agni-pariksha.
  
  From flower-petals to scenic locations, "Mistress of Spices" redefines the concept of beauty in films through the rich use of spices. Cinematographer Santosh Sivan simply creates magic onscreen by capturing the true spirit of the spices imparting each frame a gorgeous texture. How one just wishes if we could smell the aroma of Spice Bazaar to get a feel of the hundreds of spices on display. And despite the fact that the major part of the film is shot inside the store, it still looks visually appealing.
  
  But the problem with 'MOS' is that after a point the film drags. The scenes and setting tend to get repetitive. Even the characterizations are one-dimensional. Apart from Aishwarya, none of the characters who come as customers to the store are developed properly! Nitin Ganatra who had put in a fabulous comic act in "Bride and Prejudice" is wasted in the role of a Kashmiri cabbie. Even other actors like Anupam Kher, Ayesha Dharker or Padmalakshmi don't get much scope. The flashback story of Dylan ends mysteriously. The entire focus is on the main spice ? Aishwarya and she succeeds in adding flavor to the film. "Mistress of Spices" cannot be tagged as the perfect entertainment recipe. But then this spice-fest isn't your regular masala flick either.
  
  
  
• Visuals 5, Story 3, But a Pleasure to Watch
  By A328S9RN3U5M68 on 2007-06-21
  THE MISTRESS OF SPICES has some of the most beautiful use of color and texture in the form a magical Spice Bazaar that has graced a DVD. It also has as its protagonist the very beautiful Aishwarya Rai and the love interest of the always-reliable Dylan McDermott. The story was created and directed by Paul Mayeda Berges (with help from Gurinder Chada) who has given us such fine films as "Paris, je t'aime', 'Bride & Prejudice' and 'Bend It Like Beckham'. So the question arises as to why this film just doesn't quite make it: the reason may be the tough marriage of fantasy with reality, assigning more importance to dialog between the Mistress and the spices than to the development of storyline.
  
  Tilo (the ravishingly beautiful Aishwarya Rai) was taken in as a child by
  a spiritually inclined First Mother (Zohra Sehgal) who trains young girls the mysteries of spices - their magic, their meaning and their rigid life style imposed on the developing Mistresses. Those who gain the secrets of the spices are sent into the world, warned never to use the magic for them selves, never to touch human skin, and never to leave the shops where their spices are shared to help mankind. Tilo moves to the Bay Area and does good deeds for her customers until she meets Doug (Dylan McDermott) who needs her care after a motorcycle accident. They touch, their eyes speak of mutual desire and Tilo is thrown into conflict of being a mistress of spices or of having a love life. How situations and destiny work through the story is the meager line of the tale, the majority of the script is Tilo communicating with her spices!
  
  The cast contains some fine character actors such as Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Caroline Chikezie, Anupam Kher, and of course Zohra Sehgal. And there is enough statement about immigrant status in America to keep the story topical. THE MISTRESS OF SPICES entertains and that is a pleasure. Just don't expect a film on the level of director Paul Mayeda Berges' other works. Grady Harp, June 07
  
  
  
• unsung gem
  By A2906U6GT97VGC on 2007-07-06
  This is a lovely little romantic gem without the need for undue violence, gratuitous sex, or sick psychology. A sort of Bollywood "The Shop Around the Corner" with a drop of magical cinema. Enjoy in the spirit it was intended.
  
  
• Gorgeous movie,but...
  By A1POFVVXUZR3IQ on 2007-07-26
  Based on Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's novel of the same name, this movie centers around Tilo, keeper of a spice store and a practitioner of an ancient tradition, whereby the 'mistress of spices" has to take vows to stay faithful to her craft. She can only use the spices to help others, avoid physical contact with others, and also never leave the confines of her spice store.
  
  Tilo, played by the luminously beautiful Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai, shines in this movie. Her Tilo is heartbreaking to watch in her desire to stay committed to her vows, yet conflicted over her attraction to Dylan McDermott's character.
  
  The supporting roles are all well-cast, from the Kashmiri cab driver, to Anupam Kher's disgruntled grandfather [to Padma Lakhshmi's liberal-minded young Indian woman]. My only grouse is that these characters could have done with further development.
  
  The cinematography is sumptuous...the spice store is so beautiful and assails one's visual senses, and almost makes you able to smell the spices themselves. It is very reminiscent of other food-themed movies like Chocolat & Like Water for Chocolate.
  
  But, the major letdown to me was the lack of chemistry between the two leads...we are supposed to believe that Aishwarya's Tilo falls fast and hard for Dylan McDermott's character, and vice versa, thus jeopardising her role as spice mistress, BUT there is an unconvincing lack of chemistry between them, a pity given both the stars' visual appeal, not to mention acting talents.
  
  On the whole though, it is a worthwhile addition to the genre, and worth a viewing for its overwhelming visual beauty, and Rai's acting.
  
  
• What is going on?
  By A21H28E7G9B1DR on 2008-06-02
  A large group had gathered to watch this film. "What is going on?" We kept asking ourselves while watching this film. Everyone in the room had studied India and Hindu religion, some for up to thirty years and there is no basis in reality for this movie's premise. There is no "spice mysticism" or "spice cult/sisterhood." Spices have been used for cooking and healing for thousands of years in India but, not like this!
  
  Finally, one person from India watching with us remarked "This is like one of those phoney Kung-Fu mysticism movies! Why did they use an Indian actress for this? I guess Aishwarya Rai needed the money and I guess "Indians" are exotic and hip right now and there is a growing interest in Indian culture hence, this silly film.
  
  Why does it matter if it is accurate? Why not just watch this for a romantic novel on film? It is nicely filmed and the scenes are pretty. In truth, it doesn't for, as my mother used to say "It's only a movie!"
  
  However, if you are really interested in Indian people and their culture, remember that there are other many fine Indian films(that are not Bollywood's cheesy, musical silliness) that tell wonderful stories and remain true to the culture. Take some time and find out the truth. It is far more interesting and will enrich your life in ways you can't imagine.
  
  
• Read the book first, but it is a beautiful movie!
  By AS5FZCERLRM6D on 2007-07-14
  I found the book in the library a month or two ago. Soon after, I saw a listing for the movie on the TVGuide channel, and I was very surprised that a movie had been made. The book certainly doesn't read like something that would inspire a screenplay, but it does provide a lot more back story, more concentration on the mysticism of the spices, and more character development of all the 'minor' stories that come in and out of Tilo's shop.
  
  The movie was absolutely beautiful. The set, the costumes, the outdoor shots - everything was a pleasure to watch. One disappointment (and I believe a major character development issue)is that in the book Tilo is 'incarnated' as an aged woman. The young man is attracted to her none the less, and part of the temptation of the spices is for her to use them to make herself young and beautiful for him so that he will be physically attracted as well. In the movie, Tilo is already young and gorgeous, and the guy is so head over heels that there is no tension in that regard.
  
  I was very pleasantly surprised by the movie overall. Even if you don't care much about the story, it is so pretty to watch that it is worth it.
  
  
• Big Disappointment
  By A1255OD4TD7RO9 on 2007-09-04
  I am a big fan of these producers' previous movies (Beckham, Bride and Prejudice). It's nice to see actors from the prior movies in new roles, but the film falls flat. The concept is silly but could have been saved by dynamic writing and direction. Unfortunately, the execution is bland, the writing weak (Poor Ash wandering around talking to spices, which works the first few times, but not beyond), and there is absolutely no chemistry between the main romantic leads. Dylan McDermott is miscast, his role is poorly conceived, and he needs a shave. The creators of the film seem to have said: what aout this? what about this? what about adding that to explain that? But they never came up with a good package. One is painfully aware that one is watching a bad film.
  
  
• light and fluffy
  By A3F4L3V3R66GPE on 2007-09-23
  I liked it but it was just for fun. Which you need sometimes to unwind. Not great but not terrible.
  
  
• Mistress of Bland
  By A1GXU3HQB1598Y on 2008-01-18
  I love many of the actors in `Mistress of Spices', so it is with sadness that I must rate this the most boring, flat Indian movie I have ever seen.
  
  It is like `Chocolat' but without the interesting characters.
  Similar to `Like Water for Chocolate' but without the passion.
  
  Because the title character Tilo has a taboo that she cannot leave her spice shop, almost all of the `action' takes place there. A movie in primarily one location requires good drama, but most of the scenes wallow in monologues and narratives that fail to produce interest or drama. Tilo and Doug are the romantic love interest, but these two fine actors fail to produce a spark between them.
  
  The self-described "Rich Cinematography" is a pale imitation of truly visual feasts: `Devdas' or `Umrao Jaan'.
  
  The movie has turned the original novel into a bit of a penny romance; I wish it had either realism to be believable or more drama to make suspending reality entertaining.
  
  
  
• Mustard Seeds & Fenugreek : The Magical Charm of "Spices"
  By A2ULSA0IRUE09E on 2008-04-24
  An unfairly criticized film.
  
  Watching the lead actress walk past rows and rows of spice-bottles and murmur inane lines such as "Cinnamon, cinnamon, where did I go wrong" or "Black Sesame Seed, Black Sesame Seed, I pray you to protect him!", is something a viewer will have trouble getting used to. Despite being gorgeously shot, "The Mistress of Spices" may be too `far out' for some people, who may laugh at its' simplicity and supposed mysticism. It also features some very stilted dialog, a thoroughly wasted appearance by Top Chef's Padma Lakshmi, and various sub-plots that really don't have anything to add to the story.
  
  And yet, it works. At least it worked for me. Every single person I have watched this with, has hated this film with a vengeance. I don't know why this is. Its certainly not worse than "Bride and Prejudice" which was made by the same creative team. Also, I found the simple, sweet quality of this film to be a turn-on, and its perfect for a Sunday afternoon at home when you have nothing better to do. It also has some glorious shots of Indian spices - who knew there were so many of them! The spice shop alone deserves a `making-of' featurette - this is a film that pays homage to the art of cinematography - in fact, I would say that the last film that boasted of such stunning cinematography would be "Kingdom of Heaven".
  
  And then there is Aishwarya Rai starring as the lead character Tilo. Despite being the most fantastically beautiful being to ever walk the face of this planet, she is a reasonably adept actress. Here, her luminous blue-gray eyes are used to full advantage, and the camera lingers lovingly on her porcelain skin. She is bathed in all sorts of light here - sunlight, moonlight, artificial light, and at times you get the feeling that the director is a little obsessed with her (I dare you to find at least a minute of screentime here when Miss Rai is not on the screen). I don't blame him - watching a nymph of this sort of physical perfection itself is too much to handle, but really, you will like this movie primarily if you are a fan of Aishwarya Rai, considering everything in the movie is pretty much about her.
  
  I'm not so crazy about the `magical elements' they brought in here. Even if you buy into the fact that she speaks to the spices, and that they answer here (albeit telepathically), there is no justification for the numerous mistakes she makes in her spice shop, and her absolute indifference to the outside world. We are also supposed to believe that she has never been `touched by love' (an Indianism for being a virgin), but by the end of the film she's busy dressing herself up like a cheap China Doll and only too happy to quickly disrobe for Dylan McDermott (this entire segment was unintentionally hilarious). Er, ok, so we get it. The lady has never had sex so she's really into it. Still, since she `rejects' her spices, she supposedly has to go through an ancient `fire ritual'. The climax of the movie features the whole shop burning down, alongwith Tilo (the lead character), but lo and behold! She didn't burn down after all!
  
  The film ends rather anti-climactically, with the lead actress `getting the guy' (or so we assume) and getting to keep her link with the spices alive at the same time (after she profusely apologizes to them). Also, the Red Chillies in the spice shop are supposed to denote Tilo's repressed lust, and everytime she walks past the chillies, she squirms and sweats and has heart-palpitations. I found this more than a little ridiculous, but Aishwarya plays this straight-faced, which is probably the best thing to do when the script is so ludicrous to begin with. Still, given the badly written screenplay, you can't fault Aishwarya for sleepwalking through many of the segments here, though I must admit, hearing her repeatedly ponder on life's deeper questions while talking to the spices can you leave you rather unnerved. Sample - "Coriander, Coriander, why hast thou forsaken me?" (seriously)
  
  As a mythical fantasy fable from India (though its set completely in San Fransisco, except for the opening scenes in Kerala, India), this really isn't bad. Its not the greatest film ever made, obviously, but strangely enough, this has a LOT of replay value (I've seen it about ten times already - primarily due to the funny lines), and really, who doesn't like looking at Aishwarya Rai? The woman is pretty much flawless. I fail to understand how people can still find overrated mannequins such as Angelina and Penelope attractive after they've seen Miss Rai. The woman is luminous from within, and she just needs to turn up in a scene to turn it into gold. Perhaps that is why this two star film actually becomes a four star movie.
  
  A great watch. Buy this, don't rent it, because its one of those rare crossover films that beg for repeated viewing. Though its been classified as `chick flick', it falls somewhere between contemporary world cinema, and an arthouse flick. Either way, this one needs a place in your DVD collection right now.
  
  
  
  
• buffy move over
  By A2Q62T6H234LN0 on 2007-06-26
  this movie shows what one woman will do to see what her desires will drive hjer to do and what she knows she should do. but this movie dose have a lot in common with the simply irresistable movie and the main focus on the food and what it dose except this has to do with the world of spices.
  
  
• Intreging
  By A1VKG7AHXUXI0O on 2007-08-01
  I found the subject of the film and the actress intreging and actually well done, but the male star a major disappointment. I realize they used him for his name, high profile, but his acting left a lot to be desired. The "damamged" image would have worked well for a stronger actor, but he lacked the nuances which have made the film an incredible piece of work!
  
  
• Lovely
  By AE4YE74REDD9U on 2007-08-03
  I just watched it now... and for devotees of "bodice-ripper" novels... this is PERFECTION! I even felt myself tearing up at times.. Now granted, its not for everyones taste, but for me.. I loved, loved, loved, this movie... Aish was/is absolutely stunning. Well deserving of her title as one of the worlds most beautiful women... The red ensemble was jawdropping... I wanted the movie to go on.. and only wish I would have learned about it sooner rather than belatedly at the local blockbuster where it is an exclusive release.
  
  As one who thinks that most movies are a waste of time, I am glad I rented this one.. and I'm going to watch it again!
  
  
• Movie was brand new but...
  By A1IBARSPFUNFZA on 2007-08-23
  The delivery was not good at all. I had to call Amazon to find out about my package. Of course they blamed UPS for lost shipping. But still that is a disappointment for both parties. Amazon did refund my shipping. I did get my movie but it was not at the time promised. I guess if you are ordering something from amazon you have got to pray for the best. Best wishes.
  
  
• Great Movie!
  By A36ZT1F5PLKTLZ on 2007-08-23
  If you liked Bride and Prejudice and Bend It Like Beckham then you will like this movie.
  
  
• Mostly great....
  By A3K92BQM9LT456 on 2007-09-17
  As Carolyn reviewed, I also read the book first, absolutely loved it, and was delighted to find the movie. As she wrote:
  
  "The movie was absolutely beautiful. The set, the costumes, the outdoor shots - everything was a pleasure to watch. One disappointment (and I believe a major character development issue)is that in the book Tilo is 'incarnated' as an aged woman. The young man is attracted to her none the less, and part of the temptation of the spices is for her to use them to make herself young and beautiful for him so that he will be physically attracted as well. In the movie, Tilo is already young and gorgeous, and the guy is so head over heels that there is no tension in that regard."
  
  I would love to have seen this aspect played in the movie as the book was written, as so much else followed the book. I think the producers were afraid that people wouldn't want to see the older, ugly woman. But part of the beauty is what the characters see through, and what she has to endure looking like that, with her devotion to the spices.
  
  
• Maravillosa
  By A85BOY710S8QK on 2007-10-29
  Si te gusto Chocolate, está pelicula seguro te gusta, si no haz visto chocolate, despues de ver Mistress of Spices querrás verla.
  
  
• Huge disappointment
  By A30KX727C0ZQY2 on 2008-02-11
  I was after this DVD very long time, postage and everything were fantastic, only problem DVD of this movie is not working. i try to play couple of times. Beginning of it is good, however last half an hour of movie is not showing properly. it keeps freezing. it is a huge disappointment for me, since i was really looking forward to have the copy of this movie in working order.
  
  
• Tumeric for the soul
  By A25JH6CO4DVINS on 2008-02-13
  This is a pleasant little crossover movie which holds the attention of the viewer throughout.
  
  It is probably easy for some to dismiss the film as lightweight fluff but if the intention is to bring Indian movies more into the mainstream of the American culture it will achieve it's purpose.
  
  It is a well crafted story from the makers of Bend It Like Beckham and I hope that the fans it generates will follow a lightly followed path into more of the movies that India produces.
  
  It is a very pleasant romantic story that tugs at the heartstrings but I must say I do yearn for something more substantial.
  
  
• A charming fairy tale
  By AUTBHG6070SL4 on 2008-03-03
  This tasty little treat combines a handful of flavors: the foreign tang of Indian culture transplanted to the US, a sweet romance, a little of the bitterness when generations clash, and a pervasive zest that binds it all together. It doesn't hurt that Tilo, on whom the story centers, is knock-your-socks-off gorgeous.
  
  What makes this a fairy tale, for me, is the edge of enchantment that pervades the story. Like a princess in a bewitched castle, Tilo's magic holds her captive in her little store and apartment. She has a wonderful power, but the spell will come undone if she tries to escape her captivity - or her loneliness. And, of course, a Prince Charming appears on the scene, with a charm of his own that's equal parts promise and threat.
  
  I won't give away the ending, but it's much more satisfying than I would have guessed. It also shows how expressive an Indian sari can be, as stiff and formal as a three-piece suit, or as soft and evanscent as a kiss. You might want to watch this with a cup of tea and some fuzzy slippers - or you might want to obey the pepper.
  
  -- wiredweird
  
  

• Kuch Naa Kaho
• Bride and Prejudice
• Straight From the Heart
• Monsoon Wedding
• I Have Found It (Kandukondain Kandukondain)