A Wake in Providence (1999)

When his grandfather unexpectedly dies aspiring actor Anthony brings his African American girlfriend Alissa home to meet his Italian American family in Rhode Island. Chaotic and more than a little emotional the impromptu family gathering triggers a number of confrontations and some surprising confessions.System Requirements:Runtime: 94 min.Format: DVD MOVIE Genre: COMEDY Rating: R UPC: 825284200232 Manufacturer No: #00232K4D Product Description

Fictional ethnic film based on a very real family!

I had the opportunity to see "A Wake in Providence" in Rhode Island where most of it was filmed and I am excited that I can now purchase it on DVD. The title of this film implies that it would be a dark film, quite the contrary. This film had to be one of the funniest films I have seen in a long time, especially being of Italian descent, I could definitely identify with the film. But it doesn't matter what ethnic group you belong to because you can imagine your family members in that situation and find yourself busting into laughter at the various antics portrayed in the film. I would guess that most people who see this film would identify the characters with their own individual family members, but when you can identify the characters with the real individuals that the characters were based, makes it even funnier. Yes, the Pagano brothers are from Rhode Island and not only did they utilize their late grandfather's home in the film, they also used the first names of many relatives for the characters. The Pagano brothers capitalized on the rich Italian traditions, quirkyness, and drama surrounding wakes and funerals, and blended them into a very entertaining film. The acting was excellent, Victoria Rowell was outstanding as the girlfriend, and the plot very realistic. This was also the first ethnic "Italian" film where the food at the house was truly an accurate representation of not only Italian food, but the Italian lifestyle, and the importance of family and food. So, no matter what ethnic group you belong to, plug your own family members into the characters, think of your own traditions and be prepared to laugh, and laugh. This is a definite film worth watching if you need a laugh. February 17, 2007

Having a Blast

This is a must see comedy regardless of one's ethnic identity or geographic location. Everyone's family has its oddballs, secrets, oldtimers and meals from hell. Well-written and well-acted you will be laughing in the aisles or, if at home, falling off your lounger. July 20, 2005

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