Strawberry & Chocolate
by Tomás Gutiérrez Alea, Juan Carlos Tabío
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DVD Cover Information
Actor: Francisco Gattorno, Joel Angelino, Jorge Perugorría, Mirta Ibarra, Vladimir CruzDirector: Juan Carlos Tabío, Tomás Gutiérrez Alea
Brand: Buena Vista Home Video
DVD: Region Code 1
Audio: English (Subtitled); Spanish (Original Language)
Format: Color, DVD, NTSC, Subtitled
Picture Format: 1.85:1
Running Time: 108 minutes
DVD Release Date: 2004-01-13
Audience Rating: R (Restricted)
Model: 03307700
Studio: Walt Disney Video
Movie Reviews of Strawberry & Chocolate
Movie Review: a gem from Cuba
Summary: 5 Stars
This is a favorite film, I've seen it 7 times or more. That it holds up to repeated viewing is a credit to the writer and director, as well as to the mesmerizing performance of Jorge Perrugoria. When I showed it to a non-Spanish speaking friend, he had to fumble for his popcorn, his eyes were positively glued to the subtitles.
Universal themes abound -- acceptance, the development of ethical conduct, finding fulfillment in the bonds forged between unlikely opposites, etc. This film functions both as food and entertainment.
I'll echo disappointment with Miramax' arrogance in arbitrarily editing this film. The awkward edits and transitions you'll experience in this edition are those of Miramax, and not of the filmmakers. What is more, the subtitles are at times inaccurate. Nevertheless, this DVD has the best image quality of any English subtitled edition currently available. An unedited Region2/PAL edition DVD is available from Spain, but apparently without English subtitles.
The full length unedited film is available on VHS in the Colleccion Cine Cubano series from I.C.A.I.C. (Institute of Cuban Cinematography), under the title "Fresa y Chocolate". The picture quality is not as good as the Miramax DVD. The perfect DVD edition of this film is yet to be produced.
Summary of Strawberry & Chocolate
STRAWBERRY & CHOCOLATEThis charming Cuban film details the unusual relationship between the flamboyant, educated Diego (Jorge Perugorría) and the young, homophobic, pro-Revolution David (Vladimir Cruz). Miserable at being dumped by his girlfriend, David at first spurns the attentions of Diego; however, at the prompting of his Communist roommate, Miguel (Francisco Gattorno), he cultivates an acquaintanceship with Diego in order to investigate his liberal leanings. Of course, Diego's cultured ways prove fascinating to the younger man and a true friendship grows. Add the slightly crazy neighbor Nancy (Mirta Ibarra), who frequently attempts suicide, as romantic fodder for David, and this playful drama becomes a heartwarming film. Disputed in its own country, this film was the first Cuban picture to be nominated for best foreign picture at the Academy Awards. --Jenny Brown
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