Detailed Summary
Introduction and Setting
Ratatouille is a 2007 animated film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. Directed by Brad Bird, the film features the voices of Patton Oswalt, Ian Holm, Lou Romano, Brian Dennehy, Peter Sohn, Peter O’Toole, Janeane Garofalo, and Brad Garrett. Set in Paris, the story follows Remy, a rat with a passion for cooking, who forms an unlikely alliance with a young kitchen worker to achieve his dream of becoming a chef.
The Story Unfolds
Remy’s Dream
The film begins with Remy (voiced by Patton Oswalt) living with his rat colony in the French countryside. Unlike his fellow rats, Remy is gifted with an exceptional sense of taste and smell and dreams of becoming a chef. Inspired by his idol, the late Chef Auguste Gusteau (voiced by Brad Garrett), Remy practices cooking in secret.
Arriving in Paris
After being separated from his family during an escape from an elderly woman’s house, Remy finds himself in Paris, right near Gusteau’s restaurant. Guided by the ghostly figure of Gusteau, Remy sneaks into the kitchen and observes the chaotic world of professional cooking. He secretly fixes a soup that a garbage boy, Alfredo Linguini (voiced by Lou Romano), has ruined. The soup is a hit, and Linguini takes the credit.
The Climax and Resolution
The Alliance
Linguini discovers Remy’s talents and, unable to cook himself, strikes a deal with the rat. Remy hides under Linguini’s toque and controls his movements by pulling his hair. This partnership allows Linguini to rise to fame in the restaurant. However, the head chef, Skinner (voiced by Ian Holm), becomes suspicious and tries to uncover their secret.
The Reveal and Challenge
Linguini learns that he is Gusteau’s illegitimate son and rightful heir to the restaurant. Skinner’s schemes are foiled, and Linguini becomes the owner. However, the renowned food critic Anton Ego (voiced by Peter O’Toole) announces he will review the restaurant, posing a significant challenge.
The Conclusion
The Triumph
In a final test, Remy and the kitchen staff prepare a dish of ratatouille that transports Ego back to his childhood, leading to a glowing review. Ego’s review praises the restaurant and Remy’s culinary genius. However, the restaurant is shut down due to health concerns about a rat in the kitchen.
A New Beginning
Despite the closure of Gusteau’s, Remy, Linguini, and Colette (voiced by Janeane Garofalo) open a new bistro, La Ratatouille, which becomes a popular and critically acclaimed establishment. Remy finally achieves his dream of becoming a chef, and the film ends on a note of fulfillment and harmony.
Movie Ending
Ratatouille ends with Remy achieving his dream of becoming a chef, running a successful bistro with Linguini and Colette. Anton Ego, the once harsh critic, becomes a patron and supporter of their new restaurant.
Post-Credits Scene
There are no post-credits scenes in Ratatouille.
Type of Movie
Ratatouille is an animated comedy-drama film that combines elements of adventure, fantasy, and family entertainment, focusing on themes of ambition, identity, and the pursuit of dreams.
Cast
- Patton Oswalt as Remy
- Lou Romano as Alfredo Linguini
- Ian Holm as Chef Skinner
- Brian Dennehy as Django (Remy’s father)
- Peter Sohn as Emile (Remy’s brother)
- Peter O’Toole as Anton Ego
- Janeane Garofalo as Colette
- Brad Garrett as Auguste Gusteau
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score was composed by Michael Giacchino, whose music enhances the whimsical and emotional elements of the story. The soundtrack features a mix of orchestral pieces and French-inspired melodies that capture the essence of Paris and the world of gourmet cooking.
Filming Locations
As an animated film, Ratatouille was created entirely within Pixar Animation Studios. The settings, including the streets of Paris and the interior of Gusteau’s restaurant, were meticulously designed to reflect the romantic and bustling atmosphere of the city.
Awards and Nominations
Ratatouille received numerous prestigious awards and nominations, including:
- Academy Awards: Won Best Animated Feature. Nominated for Best Original Screenplay, Best Original Score, Best Sound Editing, and Best Sound Mixing.
- Golden Globe Awards: Won Best Animated Feature Film.
- BAFTA Awards: Won Best Animated Film. Nominated for Best Original Screenplay and Best Music.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Director Brad Bird was brought on to replace Jan Pinkava, who had originally developed the project.
- The animators underwent extensive research, including attending culinary classes and consulting with professional chefs, to accurately portray the cooking process.
- The character of Remy was modeled to move like a real rat, but with anthropomorphic abilities to enhance his appeal and relatability.
Inspirations and References
Ratatouille draws inspiration from the French culinary world and the concept of anyone being able to achieve greatness regardless of their background. The film explores themes of creativity, perseverance, and the breaking down of traditional barriers.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The final cut of Ratatouille closely follows Brad Bird’s vision. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions and DVD releases, providing further context and character development.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Remy’s first venture into Gusteau’s kitchen and fixing the ruined soup.
- The partnership between Remy and Linguini as they learn to cook together.
- The revelation of Linguini’s true parentage and the confrontation with Skinner.
- The preparation and presentation of ratatouille to Anton Ego.
- The final scene where Remy, Linguini, and Colette successfully run La Ratatouille.
Iconic Quotes
- “Anyone can cook, but only the fearless can be great.” – Gusteau
- “I don’t know how to cook, and now I’m actually talking to a rat as if he… did.” – Linguini
- “In the past, I have made no secret of my disdain for Chef Gusteau’s famous motto: Anyone can cook. But I realize, only now do I truly understand what he meant.” – Anton Ego
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film includes numerous nods to Parisian culture and cuisine, with detailed renderings of famous landmarks and traditional French dishes.
- Pixar animators included several references to other Pixar films, such as the shadow of Dug from Up seen in a background scene.
Trivia
- The film’s budget was approximately $150 million, and it grossed over $620 million worldwide.
- Remy’s movements were modeled after real rats, with animators keeping pet rats at the studio for observation.
- The character of Anton Ego was inspired by various real-life food critics, with his name reflecting his large ego and critical nature.
Why Watch?
Ratatouille offers a heartwarming and inspirational story about following one’s dreams and the power of perseverance, featuring standout voice performances, particularly by Patton Oswalt and Peter O’Toole, and stunning animation by Pixar. Its blend of humor, emotional depth, and culinary adventure makes it a must-watch for audiences of all ages.
Director’s Other Movies
Brad Bird also directed:
- The Iron Giant (1999)
- The Incredibles (2004)
- Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)
- Tomorrowland (2015)
- Incredibles 2 (2018)
