Peace by Chocolate

Peace by Chocolate is an inspiring and heartwarming movie released in 2021. This compelling drama is directed by the renowned Syrian filmmaker, Hatem Ali, and showcases stellar performances by actors Ayham Abou Ammar and Yara Sabri.

The film is an emotional journey and testimony of fortitude, resilience, and humanity, depicting the true story of Syrian refugee Tareq Hadhad, played by Ayham Abou Ammar. The plot captures the strength in diversity represented by Tareq's transition from a Syrian emigrant to a successful chocolatier in a small Canadian town, Antigonish, Nova Scotia. With the ongoing civil unrest in his home country, Tareq and his family are forced to leave everything they once knew and loved behind. Their journey out of Syria is fraught with uncertainty, but it is their undying spirit and endurance that set the tone for this inspiring biographical story.

Being the son of a successful chocolatier in Damascus, Syria, Ayham Abou Ammar's character, Tareq, brings a piece of his homeland's culture when he decides to restart his family's business in Canada. Thus, the sweet taste of chocolate also serves as a strong symbol of hope and resilience throughout the movie. Tareq not only has to face the hardships of resettling in a foreign land but also the challenge of rekindling his father's dream in an unfamiliar societal context.

Yara Sabri, on the other hand, acts as Tareq’s supporting pillar. She masterfully portrays the role of resilience and determination, showing how love and familial loyalty can be a source of strength and courage in the face of adversity.

Director Hatem Ali skillfully interweaves the tale of Tareq Hadhad's struggle, emphasizing the intrinsic human values of persistence, faith, unity, and overwhelming compassion. He brilliantly unfolds the storyline, unravelling the pain of displacement and the power of dreams layered with the rich cultural blend of Tareq's Syrian roots and Canadian setting.

The cinematography of this film is highly commendable, capturing the beautiful landscapes of Canada and contrasting them with the haunting memories of war-torn Syria in Tareq's past. Its visual storytelling is both striking and poignant, illustrating not only the characters' struggles but also the rich cultures from which they originate. The score complements the movie's emotional resonance, enhancing the narrative and stirring audiences' empathy.

Peace by Chocolate also portrays the quintessential struggle of refugees to rebuild a life in a new land, the cultural shocks they face, and the rejection or acceptance they battle with their host communities. However, the film stands out because it not only dwells on their hardship but applauds their determination to rise above it, symbolizing the universal dream of a better life. It showcases the power of hard work, community support, and relentless hope turning adversity into opportunity.

Another compelling aspect highlighted through this story involves the town of Antigonish. The movie presents an elegantly simple and profound truth about acceptance, showing the Canadian community's embrace towards Tareq and his family. It provides a wholesome insight into the welcoming nature of Canadians, their readiness to accept diversity, and the value they place on inclusivity and multiculturalism.

Notably, the film does not shy away from addressing critical societal issues such as prejudice, xenophobia, and disparity. However, it never loses hope, maintaining an underlying optimism throughout the narrative. The central theme, quite fittingly embodied in the title "Peace by Chocolate," refers to the sweet taste of success achieved in a peaceful environment, steering clear of political or religious strife.

In essence, Peace by Chocolate provides a soulful, visceral experience tailored to resonate with all viewers, regardless of nationality or cultural background. It is a remarkable narrative of love, perseverance, acceptance, and above all, the universal language of humanity. It prompts the audience to think beyond borders, recognizing the potential in every individual to contribute positively to society, irrespective of their origins, highlighting how adversity often brings out the best in people, much like the process of making good chocolate.