Writer: Kartikha Govinda Rajoo

Writer Ratings:
Overall:
Cast:
Plot:
Effects:
Cinematography:

Watch this if you liked: “Persepolis” and “The Last Homecoming”.

This is one of those movies that you can watch multiple times, discovering something new with each viewing. "A Touch of Spice" or "Politiki Kouzina" tells the story of Fanis in three stages of his life. As a young boy, played by Markos Osse, Fanis and his family is forced to leave Istanbul, leaving behind his grandfather, a spice store owner and a childhood sweetheart, Saime. The movie goes on to depict how Fanis, played by Odysseas Papaspiliopoulos and George Corraface later in life, deals with this transition and growing up. It is a beautifully crafted movie that deals with a lot of deep themes in a lighthearted manner.

The characters are in this movie are real and relatable. A motley crew of aunts and uncles surround Fanis and play different roles in helping him see the world. But most important is the role of the grandfather who teaches Fanis about life using spices and astrology.

This movie, however, is more than just a heartwarming tale of filial ties and soul searching. It also deals with the pains of displacement from home and the cultural difficulties of having to adjust to a less than welcoming new country. As narrated in the movie, the characters were expelled by Turks for being Greeks. And the Greeks welcomed them as Turks.

As one would expect from a movie about culture and food, the visuals are spectacular. Expect many beautifully shot scenes of the spice store and mouth watering Greek cuisine. The combination of cinematography by Takis Zervoulakos and music by Evanthia Reboutsika lends a very nostalgic and magical feel to the movie. It is almost as if you can feel the warmth and smell the spices.

This is definitely one to be watched with the family or a loved one. Much like spices, this movie is strong, full of passion and leaves a lingering taste, making you want to go for seconds.


Cinema Online, 15 November 2013