The friendship between Azul Guaita and Andrea Chaparro is as genuine as the sisterly love their characters share in the series 'Like Water for Chocolate.' The Mexican actresses, who previously appeared together in the reboot of 'Rebelde,' play Tita and her sister Gertrudis—two of the most positive female characters in Laura Esquivel's iconic novel.
While Chaparro's character, Gertrudis, doesn't cook in Salma Hayek's production, she still joined Guaita for cooking lessons. Guaita's character, Tita, spends much of her time in the kitchen, a central setting in the series. The actresses shared these details in an interview with ENSTARZ ¡Latino
"Andrea actually has a knack for cooking. She's amazing at it," Guaita revealed, having taken special lessons to recreate the unique dishes that symbolize Tita de la Garza's unfulfilled love for Pedro Murquiz.
The series premiered on Max on Sunday, November 3, offering a deeper look into the story told in Esquivel's 1989 book and Alfonso Arau's 1992 film adaptation.
'Like Water for Chocolate' is set during the Mexican Revolution of the early 20th century, blending magical realism with political history, women's struggles, and the splendor of Mexican cuisine.
Even for those familiar with Esquivel's work or the movie, this new adaptation brings an added layer of magic. With its exceptional direction, cinematography, set design, and locations, viewers can almost taste and smell Tita's kitchen. The music heightens the emotions and brings to life the dynamics between the De la Garza sisters and their mother, the strict Mamá Elena, played by Irene Arzuela.
Personal Reflections
Guaita and Chaparro shine in their roles. Tita's tenderness and innocence and Gertrudis' strength are beautifully portrayed by the pair. However, the actresses didn't just share their talents with the audience; they also took personal lessons from the story and characters.
"Listening to your inner voice, your intuition," is what Guaita learned from playing Tita—a message she hopes the audience explores as they watch the series. "Say no. This doesn't feel right. Maybe something should just be, but if you don't agree, be true to yourself and follow your heart. Follow your head and do what you want without hurting anyone, of course, but still, follow your heart."
Guaita hopes this series shows that "we all have tremendous power and can achieve incredible things."
Chaparro, in turn, sees the story as a reflection on societal norms. "Reviving this story today gives us a chance to question our customs and lifestyles. You watch 'Like Water for Chocolate' and think about how women used to live, but even today, there are many struggles that women continue to face, and we mustn't stop questioning them."
Each episode is inspired by one of the iconic recipes Esquivel included in her book. The actresses admitted that working on a food-centered set was "a delight." The dishes weren't just for show—they were all edible, and, according to them, thoroughly enjoyed.
As viewers watch Tita's injustices, grow frustrated with Mamá Elena, feel outraged by Gertrudis' wild side, and sympathize with the era's harsh norms, they're also tempted by the dishes and inspired to try out the recipes. Each episode promises a multisensory experience. Here's the episode schedule:
- 'Cream-Soaked French Toast' - November 3
- Episode 2 - November 10
- Episode 3 - November 17
- Episode 4 - November 24
- Episode 5 - December 1
- Episode 6 - December 8
While we await each episode, here's the full interview:
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