Manna from Heaven

My husband and I happened on this movie the other night at a local theater. We hadn't heard anything good or bad about this movie but we thought we'd see it anyway.

There was a table set up outside the theater with literature about the movie. I believe the person at the table was one of the five sisters who produced the movie but I wasn't sure because she was on a cell phone the entire time that the patrons were at the table.

One of the quotes on the literature said "if you liked My Big Fat Greek Wedding you are going to LOVE Manna from Heaven." This made me think that we may be in for a pleasant surprise....unfortunately we weren't.

The film had some slightly humorous moments but they were very few and far between. The "plot" was very weak, predictable and for the most part, the actor's performances alternated between stilted and exaggerated.

I really wanted to like this independent film but it just wasn't possible.

It's not a perfect movie in the conventional sense, but then again so few are. I enjoyed it quite a bit in spite of the implausible plot - after all, what's a feel-good satirical comedy without some hyperbole? The casting and performances were generally delightful. The cinematography was very good in spite of what a few other uninformed reviewers have said. To capture the feel of Buffalo NY - old, out of touch, quietly desperate but always hopeful - the Sisters put together a montage of sights and sounds reminiscent of the social and cultural hodge-podge that is the Buffalo area. It's a state of mind, not a geographical place!

The plot will, in its own way, lead you to the conclusion that the most common people can have redemption with a little effort and divine intervention. This was a great effort from a bunch of girls from Buffalo who have no money to compete against the digitized, schmoltzified crap dealers of Hollywood! A refreshing change of pace -go see it.

This film is being released nationwide by region and will be at our local AMC theatres starting the weekend of February 28th, 2003. Keep an eye open for this film because it is a real winner!

There are few films I have seen in the last few years that have touched me like this one. If you want to see quality filmwork with a believable and well executed story-line, then you really should see this film!

Getting the opportunity to see the media release showing at the Bexley Drexel on Friday January 10th was a true pleasure. After the film Gabrielle Burton, one of the co-directors and co-producers, made herself available for questions. The questions, ranging from the current distribution process to the use of numerous Academy Award winning actors to how they landed such a heart-warming story, were answered with insight and wit. The session had to end after about thirty minutes and yet there were people still wishing to ask additional questions. Gabrielle was gracious in making herself available in the lobby of the theatre for viewers and the press to continue with questions about the film.

I waited around until after she was interviewed on camera for some media outlets and then was able to let her know how I felt about the film. I thanked her for being an inspiration to those of us who are just starting in the film business and although she is an amazingly talented person, she still speaks to every independent film director/producer/writer with respect and support. I think she is a class act and will go further in the industry. Mark my words.

So get out on February 28th and see this film! It is one of the best films I have seen in the last five years!

I went into this film with three years of sobriety, left and headed straight to the bar. The only laughter in the theater were the burton sisters laughing at their own jokes. How funny! I was crying by the end of it, concocting a tale in my head of why I had to leave...a root canal would've been more pleasant. I don't understand how films like this are made. I've got an mfa in writing and these girls graduated from the buffalo community college of inept film-making. Gag me with some more syrup and I'll stick around for your next picture. Why don't you research some talent for your next pic. Wendie Malick saved the film.

Living in the Buffalo area was not what made me go see this film. The plot summary on this website sounded like a cute story and it was.

There were many nice facets about this film, the actors were terrific, and I hope the Burton sisters have a future in the film industry. However, "Manna from Heaven" just didn't work as a feature film.

I could see this story become a successful play in the Buffalo area, like the classic "Over the Tavern". -Sorry, but better luck next time.