Moonstruck - A Movie Review

Prepare to be moonstruck. Watch out for Cupid’s arrow.

Moonstruck is a 1987 romantic comedy about a woman who finds herself in a difficult situation. Engaged to be married, Loretta falls in love with her fiance’s brother. Will she fix this problem before everything gets out of hand?

It’s hard to believe that I have never seen Moonstruck until now. Moonstruck is a hilarious film. There were so many moments where I laughed out loud. You never know who you are going to fall in love with. In this chaotic story, Loretta and her family learn to value love.

Cher was easily the best part of the film. She inhabits her part. In the role that won her an Oscar for Best Actress, Loretta Castorini is a strong figure to women audiences. Her snark humor was her best trait. Loretta is not fond of love after what happened to her late husband. Her transformation both physically and mentally is monumental as it empowers her to see a new light.

For the role of Ronny Cammereri, the symbolic use of his metal hand was well incorporated. He believes he is a broken man. The fact that he feels that his estranged brother is responsible does not help the matter.

Nicolas Cage was excellent. I actually did not realize that it was Nicolas Cage until the film ended! He was also snarky in most of his deliveries. Loretta and Ronny’s relationship is an example that you never know what life is going to put on your plate. Change is real.

Stealing the limelight, Olympia Dukakis is another wonderful actress in Moonstruck. Every character gets a chance to shine in their own subplot. Depending on how you feel about Cosmo’s (Vincent Gardenia) actions, they reflect an important moral. Always stay true to yourself.

Johnny (Danny Aiello) made for many entertaining moments specifically at the end of the film. Other credits to include are Julie Bovasso, John Mahoney, Louis Guss, Feodor Chaliapin Jr., Anita Gillette, Leonardo Cimino, Paula Trueman, and many more. Customers in the restaurant are given a chance to add to a hilarious and awkward proposal scene.

Moonstruck is definitely a romantic comedy. I can tell that the writers had fun creating the story. The film won an oscar for its fantastic well-written screenplay. Subplots intertwine together. There is not just one story going on.

An element that I like about Moonstruck or any film, is that is doesn’t pay attention to one part of a story. That gets boring. At first, I thought the story took away from Loretta and Ronny, but in the end, I liked the time given to other characters to understand the crazy world of love.

Family dinner scenes are the ultimate moments for family drama. And a crazy breakfast scene was thrown into the story, too. Films that recognize nationality are exceptional. It allows audiences to understand how other families live their lives. All the conversations feel real with everyone talking over one another, getting up, or the revelations of family secrets.

Comedy is at its best. Some of the most memorable dialogue come from Moonstruck. For anyone who is studying comedy, here is where you can land comedic timing. Cher and Dukakis are the best.

Norman Jewison not only made Moonstruck authentic, but he created a hilarious film for all audiences to enjoy. His direction was spot-on. His examination into the world of love is thorough. Love is crazy. Family is everything.

Moonstruck is a timeless classic. Don’t skip out on this movie. It will make you laugh. Find it, sit down with the family, and watch it on your next Friday night.