Ritesh Sharma
GAF’s ‘For the Love of Chocolate’ is a heartwarming romantic drama that follows Aria, a passionate chocolatier whose dreams of winning the annual Masters of Chocolate Festival are suddenly jeopardized when her competition partner drops out at the last minute. Just when she thinks she’s out of options, fate introduces her to Ryan, a charming single father with a knack for flavors and a heart as warm as her favorite cocoa blend. Together, they embark on a journey to find the perfect ingredient—not just for the competition, but for something even sweeter.
Directed by Nicole G. Leier, the 2021 film beautifully blends romance, resilience, and culinary creativity, delivering a heartfelt story about second chances and unexpected connections. The filming locations play a significant role in setting the tone, with cozy chocolate boutiques, elegant festival venues, and scenic outdoor markets creating an immersive experience that transports viewers into Aria’s world. Every setting is thoughtfully chosen, enhancing both the emotional depth of the characters and the magic of the festival itself.
For the Love of Chocolate Filming Locations
Initially titled ‘Love & Chocolate,’ For the Love of Chocolate’ was filmed entirely in British Columbia, a popular destination for romantic dramas. The makers used locations such as Vancouver and Langley here. Filming wrapped on February 1, 2021, marking the end of a memorable production journey. Director Nicole G. Leier expressed her appreciation for the hardworking cast and crew, saying, “What a ride with a great group of friends, old and new! We had some hard days, but our amazing team of talented cast and crew made every moment enjoyable and exciting.” Despite a few challenges, the production proceeded smoothly, with the team’s dedication making every moment worthwhile.
Langley, British Columbia
‘For the Love of Chocolate’ utilized the picturesque settings of Langley to bring its heartwarming story to life. The Birthplace of BC, known for its blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, provided an ideal backdrop for the film’s romantic and culinary themes. One of the primary filming locations was Krause Berry Farms & Estate Winery, situated at 6179 248th Street. This family-owned farm, renowned for its vibrant berry fields, inviting market, and estate winery, offered a rustic and authentic setting that enhanced the film’s visual appeal. The farm’s charming ambiance seamlessly aligned with the movie’s themes, making it a fitting choice for several key scenes. Krause Berry Farms has a history of hosting film productions, making it a familiar and accommodating location for the cast and crew. Additionally, the film featured scenes shot in Fort Langley, a historic village within the township. Fort Langley is celebrated for its quaint streets, heritage buildings, and vibrant local businesses, which collectively exude a small-town charm. This locale provided an authentic backdrop for various scenes, enriching the narrative with its unique character.
The production team also took advantage of other notable spots in Langley, including the Fort Langley Community Hall at 9167 Glover Road and Into Chocolate Candy & Confections at 9220 Glover Road #180. These locations contributed to the film’s festive atmosphere, particularly during scenes depicting the Masters of Chocolate Festival. The community hall’s classic architecture and the confectionery’s delightful interior added depth and authenticity to the film’s setting. Langley’s diverse locales, from its historic sites to its lush farmlands, offered the production a variety of settings that enriched the storytelling. The cooperation of local businesses and the community’s welcoming nature ensured a smooth filming process, making Langley an integral part of the movie.
Vancouver, British Columbia
In addition to Langley, Vancouver played a significant role in the filming of ‘For the Love of Chocolate.’ Vancouver, often referred to as “Hollywood North,” is renowned for its dynamic urban landscapes and vibrant arts scene, making it a sought-after location for filmmakers. The city’s diverse architecture and scenic beauty provided a versatile backdrop for various scenes in the film. From bustling downtown streets to serene waterfronts, Vancouver’s locales enhanced the visual storytelling, reflecting the protagonist’s journey through both personal and professional landscapes. Vancouver’s well-established film industry infrastructure offered the production team access to experienced local crews and state-of-the-art facilities. This support was crucial in ensuring a seamless filming experience, allowing the creative vision of ‘For the Love of Chocolate’ to be realized effectively.
For the Love of Chocolate Cast Details
In ‘For the Love of Chocolate,’ Rhiannon Fish stars as Aria, a dedicated chocolatier facing unexpected challenges before a major festival. Fish, born in Calgary, Canada, and raised in Australia, began acting at age 11. Her early roles in Australian television established her as a versatile actress. Opposite her, Jesse Hutch portrays Ryan, a supportive single father who aids Aria during a critical time. Hutch, hailing from Alberta, Canada, transitioned from being a white-water rafting guide to acting, bringing authenticity and depth to his roles.
Rhiannon Fish as Aria
A seasoned performer in television and film, Rhiannon Fish has carved a strong presence in the industry with her engaging performances. Fish is known for her roles in ‘Neighbours’ as Lisa Jeffries, ‘As the Bell Rings’ as Rocky, and ‘Home and Away’ as April Scott. She also stars in ‘The 100’ as Ontari, ‘Occupation’ as Vanessa, and ‘A Love to Remember,’ as Tenley. Her other credits include ‘Journey of My Heart,’ ‘The 27-Hour Day,’ and ‘Aurora Teagarden Mysteries: How to Con a Con.’
Jesse Hutch as Ryan
Jesse Hutch, known for his charismatic screen presence, has been a staple in film and television, delivering standout performances across various genres. His versatility shines through in roles such as Jimmy Riley in ‘American Dreams,’ Jason McHolm in ‘About a Girl,’ and Nate Harrison in ‘Kyle XY.’ In addition to leading roles, Hutch also stars in ‘Hellcats,’ ‘True Justice,’ and ‘Cedar Cove.’ Expanding his impressive portfolio, his other credits include ‘Let It Snow,’ ‘My Boyfriends’ Dogs,’ and ‘Harvest Moon.’
The supporting cast of ‘For the Love of Chocolate’ includes Genevieve Buechner as Sage, Iris Quinn as Charlotte, Fred Henderson as Jeffrey, Kandyse McClure as Jamie, Emma Oliver as Sofie, Darien Martin as Jacob, Janet Glassford as Ashley, Braedon Cox as Charlie, Amelia Burstyn as Rebeca, and Amanda McEwan as Spencer. Their performances add charm and authenticity to the film, making each character an integral part of Aria and Ryan’s journey.
Read More: Love, Romance & Chocolate: Filming Locations and Cast Details
