Talented chocolate maker Angelique could go places with her skills with the delicious confections. Her work has already won her plaudits from adoring customers.

Her only problem is that she is cripplingly shy and seeks support and encouragement from a support group of people with a similar problem. She finds it difficult to meet and deal with people.

We see her approaching a chocolate company for a job and reciting her introductions to her reflection in the factory window opposite when she is spotted by her would-be colleagues.

By coincidence the boss Jean-Rene also struggles with a lack of self confidence and pours out his heart to a therapist who sets him increasingly challenging tasks - including asking a woman out.

Cue one of the funniest, yet most excruciating, first date scenes with Jean-Rene, played by Benoit Poelvoorde, rushing in and out of the restaurant as his nerves overtake him and he has to change a succession of sweat stained shirts.

But he has more imminent worries at hand, the company is ailing despite the valiant efforts of the staff and with orders falling only a brilliant chocolatier can save the firm.

With her way with new flavours to tempt the taste bud Angelique knows how to create winning chocolates but she too has to overcome her inner demons to reveal her skill. Her previous employer was happy to preserve her anonymity as her sweets were so popular they virtually walked out of the store.

Isabelle Carre is endearing as the heroine, struggling with the conflict between her anxiety and her passion for her work.

Her Angelique is a charming, winsome and amusing woman who puts the viewer in mind of Amelie, the heroine played by Audrey Tatou in another French confection.

This movie directed by Jean-Pierre Ameris is a sweet funny winter warmer, which delights without being too sickly.

ROMANTICS ANONYMOUS (12A)

Director: Jean-Pierre Am�ris

Starring: Benoit Poelvoorde, Isabelle Carr�, Lorella Cavotta, Lisa Lametrie

Length: 78 mins

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