Published by: The Film Magazine | Disney 100 Week | 12.10.2023
Who could have predicted the sheer brilliance and originality that bursts out of a movie which stars a rodent with dreams of becoming a chef? If you’re yet to see the masterpiece that is Ratatouille (2007), the premise will seem entirely bizarre, but in that lies the answer to this Pixar release's global success.
Today Disney’s Pixar is a household name and a critically acclaimed company, back in 2007 the studio had a history of successful features behind them. Ratatouille (2007) followed the release of classics like, Cars (2006), The Incredibles (2004), Finding Nemo (2003) and Monsters Inc (2001). Pixar were simply outdoing themselves time and time again, only to succeed for an eighth time in a row. Ratatouille (2007) is now the seventh highest grossing Pixar film of all time, considering Pixar have produced a total of 27 as of this year, that solidifies Ratatouille (2007) as one of the best success stories.
Filled with witty French sarcasm and an abundance of iconic imagery, it is hard to think about food without thinking of ‘little chef’ hidden under Linguini’s toque. Disney animators have continued to prove their talents since the studios first release of Toy Story in 1995. Since then, the animation team has refined their skills to provide audiences with beautiful visuals and breathtaking detail in every frame. From the gorgeously animated Parisian skyline to the immense attention when curating hundreds of scurrying rats, it is hard to believe Pixar only had nine months to animate the entire feature. Ratatouille (2007) transports audiences into the life of a rat, being small and feared. Pixar harnessed skills learnt from A Bug’s Life (1998), building an entire world that humans would never usually get to experience and bringing it to our screens.
Ratatouille (2007) is nothing shy of a triumph, combining the studios reputation and sheer brilliance when it comes to animation, both would be nothing without an outstanding pack of unique voice actors. Patton Oswalt lends his voice to Remy, known for his comedic timing and goofy undertone. Oswalt embodies an undeniably likeable and self assured persona for Remy. Alongside Lou Romano as Alfredo Linguini the clumsy human side-kick, Brad Garrett as Gusteau the almighty voice of reason and finally, Peter O’Toole as Anton Ego the sinister villain. Each voice actor radiates a distinct style which embodies the very essence of their characters intentions and adds to the films overall witty charm.
The reason Ratatouille (2007) can resonate with audiences is simple. This film is a whimsical display of encouragement and belief, if Remy the rat can achieve his dreams and work through adversity, so can you. Disney encourages this inner self belief in many, if not all of their features, it can be seen throughout Pixar movies in particular; Finding Nemo (2003), UP (2009), Brave (2013) and Luca (2021) to name a few. Ratatouille (2007) asks you to look past what’s on the outside and embrace what lies beneath. Remy’s relationship with Linguini evolves into one of the most adorable duos in Pixar history, Linguini is accepting of Remy and nurtures his talents. Their love and admiration for one another easily makes Ratatouille one of the most human stories, despite the lead character being a rat. A film which achieves a range of impact with its fans but most notably this film will make you smile.
Director Brad Bird was hot-off-the-press from his 2004 success, The Incredibles. Bird happened to be the screenwriter and director of both The Incredibles and Ratatouille, his success story at Pixar soon led him to the Hollywood big leagues. He co-directed Tom Cruise in the forth instalment of the Mission Impossible franchise, Ghost Protocol (2011).
From the outside it is hard to see the similarities between Bird’s The Incredibles and Ratatouille but with a closer look these two Pixar movies project a very similar theme; don’t hide your talents, embrace and share them. Typically harnessing Disney’s common themes of believing in yourself. Remy being encouraged to hide in the shadows and suppress his passion for food is somewhat like Mr. Incredible, he is forced to hide his true identity and suppress from helping those in need. Both characters have a deep passion but have been ridiculed or judged by the world, resulting in doubt and disbelief. Of course, both features showcase the characters incredible journeys to greatness. Remy’s passion only grows stronger and his self belief is embraced by his peers and friendships, similarly Mr Incredible and his family find the positives in their new lifestyle but find a way to embrace their individuality.
Composer Michael Giacchino, whose music you’ve heard in The Incredibles (2004), UP (2009), Inside Out (2015) and Coco (2017) won a Grammy for his work on Ratatouille (2007) along with a nomination for Best Original Score at the Academy Awards. Adding French flair to orchestral sound with guitars, violins and an accordion, the score has the power to independently tell a story without any added visuals.
The most impactful sound from the features score is the title song ‘Le Festin’, (meaning ‘The Feast’ in English), embodying the soul of France with the effortless voice of French artist Camille. Catapulting audiences into the world of Ratatouille within an instant, Giacchino composes thematically, using the primary themes from the film to curate his music. From Remi’s thief-like rat chases, his clownish, buddy relationship with Linguini to his dreams of Paris. Each theme is accompanied by music and elevates the movie to the next level.
The music not only embodies the themes of the film but also the textures and visuals. The mouth watering French cuisine you could almost smell through the screen combined with the everlasting taste of success and passion. Ratatouille (2007) combines the beauty of music and food in almost every frame, particularly the scene when Remy makes/fixes the soup in a dreamlike sense of wonder.
Ratatouille (2007) at its core is a film about identity. People may judge or discriminate against you due to your appearance or background but what truly matters is what’s inside. This film has unlocked the secret ingredient to producing a timeless classic, everyone has the potential to follow their dreams and succeed, even if you’re a rat like Remy.
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