| Overall Grade: |
A+ |
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| Story: |
A+ |
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| Acting: |
A+ |
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| Direction: |
A+ |
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| Visuals: |
A- |
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The "Cassablanca" of the last half of the century
by John (movies profile)
Oct 1, 2006
3
of
3 people found this review helpful
"Moonstruck" may be the most perfect romantic comedy ever made. It's not just because "Moonstruck" tells a compelling story about two engaging people, which it does, but because the picture has so many sympathetic peripheral characters and appealing subplots. All f this is enveloped with great music by Puccini.
And, of course, it's the acting. Cher won an Oscar for her brilliant and humorous portrayal of an independent-minded Italian woman who falls in love with a one-handed, opera-loving baker, played by Nicholas Cage. Affairs are complicated, however, because Cage is the younger brother of Cher's fiancee, played by Danny Aiello. Sticky situation. Also portrayed with consummate skill are Cher's parents, played by Vincent Gardenia and Olympia Dukakis. Their stories, and their own romantic interests, are almost as appealing as Cher's. As matters proceed, there is not a false note anywhere to be found. Like "Casablanca," "Moonstruck" is a film that simply can't be imagined in any other form. Nothing can be added, and nothing can be taken away. Director Norman Jewison and screenwriter John Patrick Shanley have made a film that is perfectly beautiful, thoughtful, poignant, funny, and fun. Like the full moon, it is enchanting to look at time and again. |
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