Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Nudity, violence in sensual adaptation of famous romance.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Like Water for Chocolate
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Como ague para chocolate, aka LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE, is a TV adaptation of Mexican writer Laura Esquivel's award-winning 1989 novel. Tita de la Garza (Azul Guaita Bracamontes) is the youngest of three daughters born to Elena de la Garza (Irene Azuela) after the death of her husband. Largely rejected by her mother, Tita spends much of her youth in the kitchen learning how to cook from Nacha (Ángeles Cruz), the family cook, and developing her special gift: the ability to transfer her emotions into the food she prepares so that those who eat it can feel what she feels. Growing up with her older sisters, Rosaura (Ana Valeria Becerril) and Gertrudis (Andrea Chaparro), in her bitter mother's home isn't always easy, but Tita is still able to enjoy tender moments with her childhood sweetheart, Pedro Múzquiz (Andres Bandia). But when it's time for them to marry, a cruel family tradition makes it impossible, and they must find a way to navigate this heartache moving forward.
Is It Any Good?
The TV adaptation of Laura Esquivel's work of magical realism spins the popular romantic tale through the sensual awakenings produced by food and love. Unlike the 1992 movie of the same name, this version of Like Water for Chocolate is presented as multiple episodes over two seasons, allowing for more character and plot development. It also focuses on some of the more intricate details of the chaotic, post-Mexican Revolution world and the "machista" (sexist) cultural norms by which they live. This creates a passionate and complicated soap opera-like love story that spans decades, and compels viewers to invest in it. Those unfamiliar with Esquivel's novel but are looking for a good drama will enjoy it. Fans of the book or the original movie will note some differences, but most likely won't be disappointed.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about magical realism. How is the combination of reality and fantasy purposely used to tell a good story?
How does breaking down Like Water for Chocolate into episodes vs. a roughly two-hour movie impact the way the overall story is told? Do you prefer the movie version or the TV version?
TV Details
- Premiere date : November 3, 2024
- Cast : Azul Guaita Bracamontes , Andres Baida , Irene Azuela
- Network : Max
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Activism ( Gender equality ) , Arts , Baking , Book Characters , Cooking , Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Fantasy ( Magic ) , Friendship , History
- Character Strengths : Perseverance
- TV rating :
- Last updated : March 3, 2026
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate