Peace by Chocolate (film)

Peace by Chocolate is a 2021 Canadian drama film written and directed by Jonathan Keijser. The film is inspired by the true story of the Hadhad family, Syrian refugees who rebuilt their chocolate factory in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, after their original factory in Damascus was destroyed in the Syrian civil war.

The film stars Hatem Ali as Tareq Hadhad, the patriarch of the family, and Ayham Abou Ammar as his son, Issam, who struggles to balance his ambition to become a doctor with the family's need for him to help re-establish their chocolate business. The narrative follows the family's integration into their new community and the challenges they face navigating cultural differences, language barriers, and the lingering trauma of war.

Peace by Chocolate explores themes of immigration, family, entrepreneurship, and the importance of community. It highlights the positive impact refugees can have on their host countries and the challenges they overcome in starting new lives. The film emphasizes the power of resilience, adaptation, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The film received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its heartwarming story, strong performances, and its message of hope and understanding. It has screened at numerous film festivals and has been recognized for its contributions to Canadian cinema and its celebration of diversity and inclusion.