“Ratatouille” is an animated masterpiece that has captured the hearts and taste buds of audiences worldwide. Released in 2007, this Pixar gem directed by Brad Bird takes us on a gastronomic adventure like no other, celebrating the art of cooking, friendship, and following one’s passion. In this blog post, we delve into 15 intriguing trivia about “Ratatouille,” revealing the film’s behind-the-scenes secrets, memorable moments, and its lasting impact on animation and culinary enthusiasts alike.

1. The Pioneering Concept:

“Ratatouille” is the first-ever animated film to focus on the world of cooking and gourmet cuisine. This innovative concept not only delighted audiences but also showcased the storytelling potential of animation in exploring unique themes and settings.

2. A Rat with a Palate:

The film’s main character, Remy, voiced by Patton Oswalt, breaks the mold by portraying a rat with a refined sense of taste and an extraordinary ability to appreciate and create exceptional dishes. Remy’s passion for cooking serves as an inspiration to follow one’s dreams, no matter the obstacles. 

3. Ratatouille: A Symbolic Dish:

The film’s title, “Ratatouille,” not only refers to the classic French dish but also serves as a metaphor for embracing diversity and celebrating the unexpected. Just as the dish combines various ingredients, the film celebrates the fusion of different talents and perspectives.

4. The Voice Behind the Magic:

Brad Bird, the film’s director, provided the voice for one of the supporting characters, Chef Ambrister Minion. Bird’s involvement showcases his dedication to the film and his willingness to step into the voice acting booth for a memorable cameo.

5. Gusteau’s Linguistic Flourish:

The name “Gusteau,” the fictional restaurant in the film, is a play on words. “Gusteau” sounds similar to “gustation,” which refers to the sense of taste, further emphasizing the culinary theme of the story.

6. Pixar’s Technical Mastery:

“Ratatouille” pushed the boundaries of animation with its complex and detailed visuals. The animators paid meticulous attention to capturing the textures and movements of food, elevating the sensory experience of the film.

7. Collaboration with Culinary Experts:

To ensure authenticity in the depiction of the culinary world, Pixar collaborated with renowned chefs, including Thomas Keller and Brad Lewis. The collaboration enriched the film’s portrayal of gourmet cuisine and provided valuable insights into the art of cooking.

8. A Feast for the Eyes:

The film’s visual style was heavily influenced by the works of renowned French impressionist painter Auguste Renoir. The warm and vibrant color palette, combined with intricate details, creates a visually stunning feast for the eyes.

9. Remy’s Signature Move:

Remy’s distinctive move of extending his arms while sniffing food, known as “the sniff,” was inspired by the actions of real rats when they encounter interesting scents. This simple yet endearing gesture adds personality to Remy’s character.

10. Embracing the Multicultural:

The film celebrates the multicultural nature of cuisine, with characters representing diverse culinary backgrounds. From Remy’s French influence to Colette’s expertise in classic French cooking, “Ratatouille” showcases the global influence of food.

11. The Unlikely Friendship:

The bond between Remy and Linguini, the bumbling garbage boy turned chef, is at the heart of the film. Their unlikely friendship demonstrates that teamwork and understanding can lead to extraordinary achievements.

12. Hidden Pixar Easter Eggs:

Pixar is known for including Easter eggs and references to their previous films. In “Ratatouille,” keen-eyed viewers can spot the famous Luxo Jr. lamp and the Pizza Planet truck, adding an element of fun and interconnectedness to the Pixar universe.

13. Rats: The Real Heroes:

In creating the film, the filmmakers took great care to depict the rats realistically. They studied the behavior and movement of rats, even welcoming real rats into the Pixar studio for observation, ensuring accurate animation and characterization.

14. A Film for Foodies:

“Ratatouille” became a favorite among food enthusiasts, leading to an increase in the demand for ratatouille recipes. The film’s positive portrayal of the culinary arts inspired many to experiment in their own kitchens and explore the world of gourmet cooking.

15. An Academy Award Triumph:

“Ratatouille” received widespread critical acclaim and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. The film’s recognition further solidified its place in animation history and celebrated its exceptional storytelling and technical achievements.

“Ratatouille” serves as a testament to the power of animation to captivate and inspire audiences of all ages. Through our exploration of these 15 intriguing trivia, we have gained a deeper appreciation for the film’s groundbreaking concept, its artistic and technical achievements, and the timeless themes of following one’s passion and embracing diversity. “Ratatouille” continues to delight and inspire, reminding us that anyone can achieve greatness, regardless of their background or physical form.

Written by Tuğrul Cenk Demirkıran• November 3, 2023• 4:05 pm• Facts & Trivia, Movies

animation movies Ratatouille trivia

Last modified: February 23, 2024