Moonstruck (1987) Movie Review – A Charming Romantic Comedy Classic
Moonstruck (1987), directed by Norman Jewison and written by John Patrick Shanley, is a beloved romantic comedy that has earned its place as a classic in the genre. With its sharp wit, engaging performances, and a story that combines romance with family dynamics, Moonstruck offers a delightful and heartwarming experience. Set against the backdrop of 1980s Brooklyn, the film explores themes of love, family, and self-discovery with humor and warmth.
Plot Summary: A Tale of Love and Family
Moonstruck follows the story of Loretta Castorini (Cher), a widowed, middle-aged woman living in Brooklyn. Loretta is engaged to her safe but uninspiring fiancé, Johnny Cammareri (Danny Aiello). As she prepares for her upcoming wedding, her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets and falls for Johnny’s estranged brother, Ronny (Nicolas Cage).
Ronny, a passionate and troubled man, is dealing with his own issues, including the loss of his hand in a workplace accident and a broken heart. The film delves into the complicated dynamics that ensue as Loretta’s feelings for Ronny grow, leading to a series of comedic and dramatic events that challenge her understanding of love and commitment.
The story is further enriched by the presence of Loretta’s eccentric and loving family, including her overbearing mother, Rose (Olympia Dukakis), and her sweet but clueless father, Cosmo (Vincent Gardenia). As Loretta navigates her romantic entanglements, the film also explores the impact of her decisions on her family and their relationships.
Performances: A Stellar Cast
The cast of Moonstruck delivers exceptional performances that bring depth and charm to the film. Cher, in one of her most iconic roles, won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Loretta Castorini. Her performance is both humorous and poignant, capturing the complexities of a woman caught between societal expectations and personal desires.
Nicolas Cage provides a memorable performance as Ronny Cammareri, bringing intensity and vulnerability to the role. His portrayal of a man grappling with his own emotional turmoil contrasts sharply with the film’s comedic elements, adding a layer of depth to the romantic storyline.
Olympia Dukakis, who won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, shines as Rose Castorini. Dukakis’ portrayal of Loretta’s mother is both endearing and acerbic, offering a perfect balance of humor and insight. Vincent Gardenia adds warmth and comedic relief as Loretta’s father, Cosmo.
The supporting cast, including Danny Aiello and Julie Bovasso, further enriches the film with their engaging performances. Each character contributes to the film’s exploration of family dynamics and the various forms of love and connection.
Direction and Screenplay: A Blend of Romance and Comedy
Norman Jewison’s direction of Moonstruck is both adept and nuanced, capturing the film’s romantic and comedic elements with equal skill. Jewison’s ability to blend humor with heartfelt moments creates a film that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. His direction ensures that the film’s exploration of love and family feels authentic and engaging.
John Patrick Shanley’s screenplay is a standout element of the film, offering sharp dialogue and a well-structured narrative. The script’s blend of romantic comedy and drama allows for both laughter and introspection. Shanley’s writing provides memorable lines and situations that have become iconic in the genre, contributing to the film’s enduring appeal.
Cinematography and Production Design: Capturing the Essence of Brooklyn
The cinematography by John Alonzo effectively captures the essence of 1980s Brooklyn, with its warm and inviting visual style. The film’s use of lighting and color enhances its romantic and nostalgic tone, creating a visually appealing backdrop for the story.
The production design, overseen by Artie Kiedron, reflects the everyday life of Brooklyn’s Italian-American community. The attention to detail in the set design, costumes, and props adds authenticity to the film, immersing viewers in the world of the Castorini family.
Themes: Love, Family, and Self-Discovery
At its core, Moonstruck is a film about love in its many forms. It explores the idea that true love requires embracing both joy and pain, and that personal growth often comes from confronting one’s own vulnerabilities. The film’s depiction of family dynamics and the challenges of romantic relationships adds depth to its exploration of love and commitment.
The film also addresses themes of self-discovery and personal fulfillment. Loretta’s journey is one of finding her own happiness and realizing that her true desires may not align with societal expectations. Moonstruck presents a heartwarming and humorous look at the ways in which people navigate their own desires and the impact of those choices on their loved ones.
Where to Watch Moonstruck Online
As of 2024, Moonstruck is available on several streaming platforms and digital rental services. Here are the options:
Streaming Services
- HBO Max: Moonstruck is available for streaming on HBO Max. Subscribers can watch the film in high definition and access additional features, such as behind-the-scenes content.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is also available on Amazon Prime Video for streaming with a subscription. Prime members can enjoy the film in HD and download it for offline viewing.
- Hulu: Moonstruck may be available on Hulu through additional packages or special content collections. Check Hulu’s current offerings for availability.
Rental and Purchase Options
For viewers who prefer to rent or own Moonstruck, several digital platforms offer these options:
- Apple iTunes: You can rent or purchase Moonstruck on Apple iTunes, with options for HD and Ultra HD viewing. The platform supports all Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers the film for rental or purchase, with various resolution options to suit different devices.
- Vudu: Vudu provides rental and purchase options for Moonstruck, often with deals or bundles that include other classic romantic comedies.
Conclusion: A Timeless Romantic Comedy
Moonstruck (1987) remains a classic romantic comedy that continues to charm audiences with its blend of humor, romance, and heartfelt moments. With its engaging performances, witty dialogue, and exploration of love and family, the film stands out as a timeless gem in the genre.
For those who appreciate romantic comedies with depth and character, Moonstruck is a must-watch. Its availability on various streaming platforms and digital rental services ensures that this classic film can be enjoyed by new generations of viewers.
