A free-spirited single mother Vianne (Juliette Binoche) arrives with the north wind in a provincial French village at the beginning of Lent, with her six-year-old daughter, Anouk. She opens a small chocolaterie, from landlord Armande (Judi Dench). It soon raises the ire of the Mayor, Le Comte de Reynaud (Alfred Molina), who sees himself as the town's moral authority. Worst still, when Vianne takes up with Roux (Johnny Depp), the leader of a band of self-confessed river rats floating into town, who like Vianne, is a nomadic free spirit.

Released in 2000, the film received five nominations at the 73rd Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actress (Binoche), Best Supporting Actress (Dench), Best Screenplay and Best Original Score. The movie is based on the 1999 novel by English author Joanne Harris.

We request a small voluntary donation of £2 for the hall hire, tea/coffee and towards equipment - there is no charge for the film.

Open to all Ru3a members. To reserve your place, please email film@rickyu3a.org.uk