In Simply Irresistible, magic is a metaphor for change. Gellar persuaded director Mark Tarlov to change the character of Amanda, bringing her own insights to the film. Says Marlov, "She explained that women like it when they are totally disoriented. It doesn't bother them when it feels like they are floating." Gellar's theory is that "Guys are very uncomfortable about falling in love because they can't stand anything they can't figure out. They also need to have everything explained.

One of the best running gags in this film comes from a statistic: that men think about sex about once every six minutes. It probably explains a lot about all sorts of things.

While this film may not qualify as high art, it has charm and humour. Patricia Clarkson, who played the Garbo-esque drug addict in High Art shows another aspect of her range admirably and is a definite highlight. SMG puts in an engaging performance, especially interesting if you, as this reviewer did, see Simply Irresistible back-to-back with Cruel Intentions.

My real gripe with this film is that it breaks the rules of fantasy and fiction which make suspension of disbelief work. Suspension of disbelief is necessary for us to accept the reality of a fictional universe. In the Simply Irresistible universe, everything our heroine feels is transmitted through her cooking. Fine. But the film makers introduce another theory, that metaphors come true (that is, that feeling lighter-than-air become actual flying). The SOD rule of thumb is that you can set one fantasy rule, but the rest of the fictional universe must be consistent. The floating thing distracts from the story.

If you want a fun escapist film, then make a note to see this film. But be warned, this is a food, food, food, film. After a couple of hours with this movie in a darkened cinema, you will want to do as I did and make for the nearest restaurant with a good dessert menu.

I went to the Republique in Bourke St, Melbourne and ate myself comatose. I especially recommend the Creme Brulee. Yum, yum.