A Wiseguy Christmas

Had no idea what to expect watching this movie, but assumed it had something to do with Christmas and the Mafia. Boy, was I ever so right, a combination that was wisely executed. What can I say, it's an indie film with no big money or big actors involved, that being said, it didn't disappoint. Besides being a Christmas themed- Mafia movie, (is that a thing or did they just invent it), it's actually very funny, funnier than expected. The whole cast did a great job, particularly the lead actor Nino Cimino who played Tony. That guy turned in one hell of a funny performance. It a world or movie remakes and reboots, it dead nice to see something different, yet still entertaining.

I noticed this film on a couple different streaming platforms during the holidays. I decided to give it a try and was pleasantly happy with my viewing. This is not a Studio film, it's an independent film, that being said, I thought the movie held up very well for an independent movie. It was so very funny, with an "wise-guy" spin on Christmas movies. The lead actor Nino Cimino, (who also wrote the script), completely steals the movie. His portrayal of lead character "Tony Pantera" was funny, charming and delightful. A mobster with a heart of gold, trying to learn the true value of Christmas. Cimino gives a very commanding performance for a very memorable character. Check this movie out, I think you'll enjoy it and laugh a lot too.

"A Wise Guy Christmas" unfortunately falls short in delivering a compelling experience. The characters seem to lean heavily on stereotypes, lacking the depth needed for an engaging narrative.

The lead actor's attempt at an Italian accent feels forced, his speech pattern is laughable, it's as if he can't read. The lead character is borderline racist and fails to capture authenticity.

The overall standard of acting is disappointingly subpar, reminiscent of a pre-school nativity play rather than a professionally produced film. It's a missed opportunity to create a more nuanced and genuinely entertaining holiday experience.

Avoid!

With all the Hallmark and Lifetime Christmas movies that come out for the holidays, I feel like almost every idea for a Christmas movie has been used. Then this movie came along and proved me wrong. This is a hilarious Italian-Mafia movie centered around Christmas. I found myself laughing out loud during most of the movie, as did the group I was watching the movie with. It's a fish out of water story, told in a funny way. Jacilyn Marfuggi, the lead actress is just drop dead gorgeous, and has a real screen presence about her. But it's Nino Cimino's hysterical lead performance as Tony Pantera that brings down the house. This seems like a role Cimino was born to play. It looks like he also wrote the script, that might explain why he absolutely kills it in this movie. This movie made me LMFAO, you all need to check it out.

This might be one of this company's bigger films, or at least the cast sure is. It's fun, cute, enjoyable, a good watch if you've already enjoyed Die Hard and Gremlins for the season. Even not during Christmas it's still worth it.