Cocoa

A story about two sisters who invent a chocolate cake that makes you lose weight? Get out the popcorn and sign me up! At the time of this review, this film is free on Amazon Prime. But even if it was a standard 3.99 rental on Amazon, it would be well worth it. Hell, I'd pay to see this in the theater! This movie was likeable, charming and wacky fun from beginning to end. It goes deliciously over the top in a way comedies used to back in the day, and I couldn't get enough of it. I loved the sisters, the story... the cake! Let's face it, these are not the easiest times in the world. Here's a film where for an hour and a half you can just forget about everything, sit back and have a really great time. What's not to love about that? Kudos to the filmmaker. Now let's eat some cake!

Jody Mortara's comedy Cocoa is designed and executed to be as light and free of heaviness as the miraculous calorie-free chocolate cake concocted by the movie's central buddy act: sisters Faith (Mortara) and Hope (Megan McGarvey), who team up after disaster hits both of them simultaneously. Just as Faith's world collapses in an acrimonious divorce, Hope, a brilliant chemist, loses her job, leaving them both penniless and in need of quick cash. When they combine their respective talents in baking and science to invent a a cake that helps people lose weight the world beats a path to their door led by benefactor Charles (John Bernieri) and Jacqueline (Marian Edmiston), a kind venture capitalist, but just as they are on the verge of success, the film's titular character, Cocoa, an adorable dog with a sweet tooth wrecks their plans and everything spins out of control. Soon the sisters are enmeshed in a complex web of high jinks involving a wacky vet, Dr. Dogwood (Pat Swearingen), a jealous husband, Mortimer (Joh Soresi), a duplicitous gigolo, Lucas (Cedric Gegel) a local mob boss, Carmine (Tony Cucci), the entire police department, and a ham-fisted local traffic reporter, Christina (Siena D'Addario). Writer/Star Mortara, who co-directs, produces and edits with Joe Gawalis, keeps the tone light and the pace rapid, while DP John Bianco lights high key with a palette of confectionery colors.

This one was definitely a different kind of comedy. After two sisters find their lives falling apart rather quickly, they try to start a company that will sell chocolate cake that makes you lose weight...qnd then it all goes off the rails.

Mistaken identities, mob bosses, a mad scientist/veterinarian and a dog that died but isn't really dead...this thing takes a LOT of twists along the way!

Jody Mortaro and Cedric Gegel put in the best performances of the film, and Mortaro's comedic timing was perfect. When you watch this film - and you should - pay attention to the background commentary. Some of the best one-liners might slip past you!

Triple threat Jody Mortara, who serves as the writer, star, and co-director (with Joe Gawalis) of "Cocoa," delivers a fun comedy about two sisters (Jody Mortara and Megan McGarvey) who develop a special cake that allows people to enjoy the desert with the knowledge that they are cutting weight as a result. The chemistry between Mortara and McGarvey is clear immediately, and the two provide for a fun and entertaining ride as they encounter a multitude of silly characters who are intrigued by their creation. If you're looking for a fun and silly comedy, check out "Cocoa." I highly recommend this fun film!

"Cocoa" is a delightful slapstick comedy that tickles your funny bone with an abundance of spit takes and Pratt falls. The heartwarming tale follows two sisters as they navigate through life's unpredictable twists and turns while managing to keep their wits intact. Set against the charming backdrop of Morristown, New Jersey, the town itself becomes a vibrant supporting character, with its churches, police station, coffee shops, and streets adding depth to the narrative.

One of the film's greatest strengths lies in its ability to evoke a sense of wanderlust, as it paints a vivid picture of Morristown that makes viewers eager to pack their bags and explore the quaint town firsthand. Jody Mortara, both the mastermind behind the film and one of its stars, shines brightly, showcasing her talent and versatility in this comedic gem.

Despite the whirlwind of events that unfold on screen, "Cocoa" expertly ties up every loose end by the time the credits roll, leaving audiences satisfied and smiling. With its perfect blend of humor, heart, and hometown charm, "Cocoa" is a must-watch for anyone in need of a good laugh and a touch of whimsy.