(Romance) Tilo runs a spice store in San Francisco and has a magical gift of seeing into her customers' lives and desires. But, when a handsome, enigmatic American with a secret past enters her store, Tilo?s own desires a... more »re stirred for the first time.« less
Sharon F. (Shar) from AVON PARK, FL Reviewed on 9/9/2022...
I found this movie very informative, intoxicating, and sensual. The scenes (photography) were very well done and I loved the accents.
Kristi G. from ROME, GA Reviewed on 1/15/2008...
If, by chance, you are pagan, I think you will love this movie.
The ultimate chick-flick for women who LOVE the magick of spices and herbs.
1 of 4 member(s) found this review helpful.
Movie Reviews
Charming tale of love & magic
D. Matlack | in Wild Wyoming | 06/09/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Came across this by sheer accident and I'm very grateful for it.
"Mistress of Spices" is a nice cross between "Bell, Book, & Candle" and "Like Water for Chocolate", with a dash of "Practical Magic". The rules are the same the Heroine maintains her powers and influence over the lives of others though selflessness and the manipulation of food stuffs. However to fall in love will result in negative consequences.
Arguably the main character of the movie is the Spice Bazaar itself. The set is lush in color and design, it is so remarkable that while watching the movie you might feel as though you are standing right in the middle of it and will begin to imagine the scent of all the combined spices.
Aishwarya Rai's natural radiance gives Tilo a gentle warmth that conveys a concern for others with very little effort and it's nice to see Dylan McDermott return to playing a handsome romantic lead who combines sensuality with respect. The two leads are charming, classy and beautiful, the story is stimulating and dreamy in quality compared to so many other romance movies which leave nothing to the imagination.
For a soothing and vibrant viewing experince, a bit of romance, and a touch of class with a satisfying ending. This movie is highly recommended - especially for repeat viewings, the Spice Bazaar is a pleasant place to visit."
"Everyone Has A Spice" ~ An Intoxicating Fragrance To Be Abs
Brian E. Erland | Brea, CA - USA | 06/16/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The rather obscure '05 release 'The Mistress of Spices' is a wonderfully engaging romance filled with magic and Hindu mysticism that caught my full attention from the beginning and carried me transfixed to the end. Aishwarya Rai and Dylan McDermott make an endearing couple trying to not only bridge the cultural gap between the two but also overcome the mystical connection between the beautiful Tilo (Aishwarya) and the exotic spices that fill her shop.
The key to the success or failure of this film is Aisharya's ability to make her spice store appear a magical space where she communicates with the fragrant essences surrounding her and exude a mystical essence about herself and her sacred duty as Spice Mistress. She does a magnificent job at both.
A rare treat awaits the unsuspecting viewer, I can't wait to watch it again!
"
Old and New World co-exist
LMB | Greensboro, NC USA | 06/21/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This movie was a delight to watch. It's simple presentation of tradition and the power it holds trying to bond with the here and now. It shows that you can hold on to your beliefs and values and still find happiness. Beautifully acted.............camera work wonderful.......director did a great job."
Much better than i expected
Ishtar | 06/05/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Aishwarya Rai's acting leaves a lot to be desired-- it's not at all bad, just not terribly notable. However, she plays this role with a kind of innocence and charm that make certain scenes that could be hokey, really pleasent to watch. She & Dylan McDermott have very good chemistry. The film is sexy and sensual all the way through. The back-story is a bit flimsy, but let's face it-- we're not watching this movie for the character's past, but for their present. Visually, it's stunning. Loved the saris, loved the mis-en-scene of the spice shop. Well done."
Magic, Love & Romance
L. A. Vitale | 06/26/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I enjoyed reading the book, Mistress of Spices and also enjoyed the movie as well! Aishwarya Rai does a wonderful job of acting as usual and nails the character of Tilo perfectly.
I liked the idea of mystery, humility & humbleness of Tilo's character... Her purpose in life is to use her knowledge of the spices to help benefit the needs of those whom need her most. Tilo's life seems to be one of self service and self sacrifice for she is to never use the spices for her own benefit, dreams, and desires. She is to never leave the shop that holds her spices, nor touch another human being ever.
Tilo seems content with her life as Mistress of Spices and helping others achieve their needs and desires.... That is until she meets Doug, an architect (a lost soul if you), and feels instantly attracted to him and vice versa. Tilo knows she must not fall in love with him and does almost everything to dissuade him from falling in love for him.
The spices become angered with Tilo's desire to be with Doug and Tilo has consequences to pay for angering the spices. Does Tilo forsake the spices to be with Doug or does she forsake him for the spices? Or can she find room in her life for both "Love" and the "Spices"? Watch the movie and see!