Chocolat (2016) Watch Online Free
The history of the clown Chocolate, the first black circus artist in France, which has a great success in the late 19th century.
Chocolat (2016) is a French drama film directed by Roschdy Zem, which tells the captivating story of Rafael Padilla, a groundbreaking black artist in the French circus scene during the late 19th century. This historical drama, based on Padilla’s real-life experiences, showcases his rise as the first famous black clown, Chocolat, who performed alongside his white partner, George Foottit, and broke racial boundaries in a segregated society.
Plot Overview: The movie follows Chocolat, a man born to a Cuban slave, who becomes part of a modest circus in 1886. His initial role, a small part as Kananga the “cannibal,” is elevated by his partnership with the clown Foottit. Together, they become an act that captures the audience’s attention with its racial humor, with Chocolat cast as the butt of jokes due to his race. The act’s success leads them to the Nouveau Cirque in Paris, where Chocolat’s popularity soars, but this newfound fame brings both opportunities and crushing racial discrimination. His transformation from a beloved entertainer to a caricature of blackness mirrors the societal issues of racism and exploitation that marked his life. Eventually, Chocolat’s personal struggles with substance abuse and the limitations imposed by society lead him to a tragic downfall.
Key Themes and Analysis: The movie touches on significant themes, including racism, exploitation, and identity. Chocolat’s rise and fall expose the tensions between fame and personal degradation, as he battles the dehumanizing effect of being used for entertainment at the expense of his dignity. His popularity is tainted by the way society treats him — celebrated as a novelty and simultaneously ostracized for his race.
The film also addresses the complexity of race relations during this period in French history. While Chocolat’s performances receive admiration, the public remains conflicted, viewing him both as an object of fascination and as a symbol of the very stereotypes that he is forced to embody. His struggle highlights the toll that systemic racism takes, even on those who appear to “succeed” within a hostile society.
Chocolat’s personal journey, marked by deep personal loss, betrayal, and self-destruction, also underscores a broader commentary on the cost of fame in a racially divided society. Despite his success, Chocolat is constantly reminded of his marginalized position, which eventually leads to his tragic demise due to alcohol abuse and despair.
10 Reasons to Watch:
Emotional Impact: After watching Chocolat, viewers are likely to feel a deep sense of empathy for the struggles faced by the protagonist. The film is emotionally heavy, as it highlights the harsh realities of racism and exploitation in a way that is both poignant and heartbreaking. You might feel a mixture of admiration for Chocolat’s achievements, sorrow for his downfall, and frustration with the systemic forces that limited his potential. The film leaves a lasting impression about the costs of success in a deeply unequal society, and you might find yourself reflecting on the legacy of artists who, like Chocolat, were overlooked and misunderstood.