 |  | Great movie, but downer ending |  |
The script is excellent. The acting is great. The characters are strong. And the plotting, for a family drama, is certainly good. But the ending here is a REAL downer. If you don't mind such a bummer ending, this is a really worthwhile film.
The first two-thirds of it are superb. It's not that the last third is bad; not at all. It's just that in the last third real tragedy strikes and yes, we all know that's real because that's what life can do. But don't expect this movie to make you feel good when you're finished watching it. You can admire the acting and the script and the direction, all of which are first-rate. But the story ends on a very low note.
Just a word of warning. OK, we all know not every story has a happy ending. But this has the exact antithesis of a happy ending.
Just to let you know.
October 25, 2008Renata Bella feels lost. She has no job, no boyfriend, no plans...that is, until Sam Sharpe bursts into her life. He's loud, he's impulsive, he's passionate, and he's in love with Renata - AND her big Italian family. Will the tight-knit Bella family accept Sam with open arms, or will Sam tear them all apart? This gem of a film pairs Holly Hunter & Richard Dreyfuss, whose chemistry is just as apparent as it was in "Always". Filmed on location in Boston, MA and North Carolina (the Bella house was in Durham, NC, and the big wedding scene was in the Governor's Mansion in Raleigh, NC), the various scenes blend together seamlessly. Casting is superb as the actors give you a sense that you're peeking into the lives of an ordinary family. Before it's over, you're sure to want Danny Aiello and Gena Rowlands to be your mom & dad. A sweet love story that will make you feel like taking a chance at least once.
September 30, 2008An older and very quirky love story. This one has pretty much gone unnoticed, but it's worth checking it out. If you like Richard Dreyfuss and Holly Hunter, you will like this movie.
December 24, 2007I watched this and it really made me want to be a part of this family.A movie that shows love,happiness,and sadness.It shows that sometimes its hard for a family to stick together,but you need to.I enjoyed it.
November 10, 2007If you come from an Italian/American family (and I do) this is a "got to see" movie. Right up there with Moon Struck, it follows the trials and tribulations of growing up in such a family. It's funny, romantic, touching and sad. I believe it's one of Holly Hunter's and Richard Dreyfuss's best. And the fabulous supporting acting of Danny Aiello, and Gina Rolands rounds it out to be one super, see over and over again movie. Pop some corn, grab a box of Kleenex and enjoy!
August 24, 2007More reviews at Amazon.com ...
Daily Birthdays
(34 reviews)