Is it slightly ironic or poetic that a show named 'Chocolate' can stir up as many tears as it does nostalgia? This South Korean television series, airing in late 2019, is a rich mosaic of emotions wrapped around universal human experiences. 'Chocolate' is not just about the delectable sweetness its name suggests; it’s a poignant assembly of stories about love, loss, and the healing power of food. Directed by Lee Hyung-min and penned by writer Lee Kyung-hee, 'Chocolate' immerses you into a world where memories are triggered by flavors and textures, all set against the beautiful backdrop of a serene hospice in Wando, South Korea.
At the heart of this touching narrative is the charismatic pairing of Ha Ji-won and Yoon Kye-sang. A well-loved actress in South Korea, Ha Ji-won plays the role of Moon Cha-young, a chef who draws healing and inspiration from her childhood memories of a small, comforting restaurant. On the other side is Yoon Kye-sang as Lee Kang, a talented neurosurgeon who had dreams of being a chef, a passion that gets derailed due to a personal tragedy. The series weaves seamlessly between their intertwined past and present, exploring how the characters and audiences can find catharsis through food—it's as much a romance with life itself as it is between two individuals.
'Chocolate' thrives on its ability to touch on the painful realities of life, melding them with moments of solace found in food’s communal language. It shows that food is more than sustenance—it's a bridge to our memories and emotions, a recurring theme that resonates with anyone who has ever found comfort in a favorite meal during tough times.
The series aired on jTBC and was later made available on Netflix, quickly captivating audiences beyond South Korea thanks to its exploration of life’s complexities through relatable characters and heartwarming stories. There's something uniquely powerful about a show that can weave such intricate emotions with seemingly simplistic elements like a bowl of noodles or a mouthful of chocolate.
When you consider the backdrop of the hospice setting, where life and death intermingle, 'Chocolate' expands its narrative to more significant messages. It reflects beautifully on palliative care, a sensitive area that often receives less attention but forms an essential part of human dignity. In doing so, it invites viewers to discuss and rethink their perceptions on death and healing.
From a culturally liberal perspective, the series is a gentle reminder of the limited conversations around end-of-life care and the need to broaden such discourse. It poses questions without heavy-handedness, allowing the audience to introspect about their personal attitudes and societal norms.
However, 'Chocolate' wasn't devoid of criticisms. Some viewers found its pacing a bit slow, which might feel like a hit to anyone used to the adrenaline of fast-paced dramas or thrillers. But isn't it a bit like savoring a good dessert—it takes time, patience, and a slowdown of our often frenetic lifestyles?
Interestingly, this slower pacing is what makes 'Chocolate' a unique delight. It's aligned with the storytelling style many appreciated in earlier South Korean dramas before the more recent surge of fast-paced, twist-laden series. It offers a chance to breathe and reflect, reminiscent of older dramas' slower burn, which some of us might argue holds a charm all its own.
For Gen Z audiences, used to consuming bite-sized TikTok content, such a series can offer a different kind of satisfaction. It's like binge-watching not for the thrill but for the warmth it offers. Even if the geographical and cultural context feels different, at its core, 'Chocolate' tells a story of family, love, grief, and food—concepts as universal as they come.
Peeking into the lives of others through this narrative lens helps challenge our understanding of different cultures, health care practices, and inevitably, the meaning of life and death. Amid a world that often feels divided, such stories pave the way for empathy and connection.
In a contemporary society grappling with myriad issues, 'Chocolate' provides a comforting pause. It deftly encourages us to face our deepest fears and losses while holding on to the nourishing memories shared through food. It stands as an invitation to think, reflect, and perhaps view our world with a little more kindness.