Stirring the Pot: The Politics of Ethnicity in Ratatouille (2007)

Ratatouille (Dir. Brad Bird, 2007) reflects on themes of identity, authenticity, and cultural belonging. The article analyzes this film, focusing on the depiction of ethnic characters: the Italian wannabe-chefs Linguini, a lowly kitchen worker, and Remy, a rat, who team up to replace Skinner, an Arab head chef. This rags to riches story arguably attempts to challenge the tenacious historical association between “rats” and ethnic outcasts, but it presents a naturalized difference between an Italian man, who is allowed to camouflage, and an Arab man, whose camouflage is presented as adversarial. At the end of the film, the Italian rat-human amalgamation improves its status and achieves success, while the Arab character is punished. The film draws parallels between the struggles of immigrant communities, such as Italians and Arabs, and their quest for acceptance and authenticity in a new cultural context. Linguini’s journey represents a form of cultural assimilation that is ultimately accepted, while Skinner’s deception is met with punishment and rejection, reflecting broader societal attitudes towards different immigrant groups. The article argues that by juxtaposing these characters, the film prompts viewers to consider broader themes of immigration and cultural assimilation. Indeed, Linguini exemplifies a more empathetic and collaborative social attitude, in contrast to Skinner’s authoritarian and greedy demeanor. Ratatouille—a cultural product aimed at young children—perpetuates stereotypes and reinforces ethnic hierarchies between Arabs and Italians.