After supporting his filmmaker wife, Gurinder Chadha on her Bend It Like Beckham and Bride & Prejudice projects, screenwriter Paul Mayeda Berges made his directorial debut with The Mistress of Spices.
When Tilo (Aishwarya Rai), a young member of an old, mystical secret clan of women who believe spice can help others lead richer lives is sent to Oakland, USA to open a spice shop she is told she must follow three rules. In order to become an official spice girl she must never think about her own, personal desires, never physically touch anyone else, and never leave her shop. In return, her store - Spice Bazaar is filled to the brim with all manner of exotic goods, something for everyone. Over time, her customers become devotees, looking for cures for their problems to improve their lives and give their romances a bit of a boost.
When the beautiful Rai comes to town, the men also come a flocking and soon, her stunning blue eyes capture the attention of Doug, a handsome architect, played by Dylan McDermott. He crashes his Harley in front of her store, but soon, whether it's the aroma or his devilishly good looks, her heart takes over, but what will become of her spice power?
This is a feel good, romantic film that bears a strong resemblance to Chocolat with much of the film's joy in the richness and warmth of the colours crammed into the quaint shop.
Includes audio commentary with Paul Mayeda and Gurinda Chadha, interviews, featurette and B-roll footage.
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