Unveiling the Secrets: When Did Pixar's Ratatouille Take Place?

The year of the events in Pixar's Ratatouille has been a topic of much debate among fans and critics alike. Is it 2007, the year the film was released, or could it be set in a different timeframe? Let's delve into the evidence provided within the film to uncover the answer.

Key Date in the Film

One of the clearest indicators of the setting is the dated will of Gusteau, the famous chef. Gusteau's will, which sets the stage for the main character's journey, mentions that an heir must be found within two years of his death. The will is dated around 2004–2007, giving us a timeframe within which to consider the film's setting. Some argue for 2004, while others suggest a later date, with 2007 being the most commonly accepted year.

Social and Cultural Context

The movie's Parisian backdrop provides additional clues. The film is set in a charming, old-world city where culinary brilliance is celebrated. However, Paris, as a city, has an inherent 'old' feel that aligns with the film's artistic vision. This 'old' feeling isn't solely conveyed through architecture but also through the way of life and technology depicted in the film.

Evidence from Technology and Cars

A key clue lies in the technology and the cars seen in the film. Linguini, who is inspired by the culinary excellence of Paris, has a box-sized black and white TV. This suggests that the events taking place are not in the very recent past, but rather in the 1950s or early 1960s. The technology and vehicles used in the film are reminiscent of this era, giving it a distinct period feel.

Historical References and Ambiguity

Some refer to a scene where a character describes the French resistance, hinting at the historical events of the 1940s. This could place the film around the 1950s or early 1960s, as the generation of people who lived through the French resistance would be in their 30s or 40s by that time. However, the character appears to be in his 30s with a very ambitious statement, which further complicates the timeline.

Conclusion and Final Verdict

The precise year of the events in Pixar's Ratatouille remains somewhat ambiguous. While the film is set in an era between the 1950s and 1970s, the most commonly accepted year is 2007. This aligns with the will's date and the overall feeling of the Paris depicted in the film. Regardless of the exact year, the focus of the film remains on the timeless pursuit of culinary excellence and the power of dreams.