The Engagement Ring

It's hilarious when NY filmmakers make films set in Northern California, with Northern California based characters. They cast New York actors who have NYC accents and mannerisms. It doesn't work. People who grow up in California wine country don't talk like New Yorkers or wear gold chain necklaces. We've also never used the word "palooka." Please stop.

A delightful comedy of errors, much in the vein of "Moonstruck;" but in some ways funnier and more charming. The acting is less over-the-top than in "Moonstruck." It's Shakespearean in its Romeo & Juliet romance, and its comedic errors and misunderstandings. Its odd little plot twists cover a 40-year spoiled romance, an up-to-the minute romance, and provoke an old Italian grandmother into finally speaking, after 20 years of mourning in silence for her dead husband. Vincent Spano and Tony Lo Bianco are charming as uncle and nephew; and Lainie Kazan shines. Patricia Heaton (of "Everybody Loves Raymond") is fabulous. This is far better than most made-for-TV movies. I recommend it highly.

Wit, comedy, romance...if I have to sum it up in very few words, that will be what I want to say of this movie. This was shown on the cable and so that is how I learned of it.

Two childhood sweethearts are being divided over a long-lost engagement ring and eventually moving on setting up their own families. Years later, the woman's daughter (Patricia Heaton as Sara) and the guy's nephew realises their affection for each other is hindered by that engagement ring.

I have to say Sara's actual boyfriend Brian who is the one being lost in what is going on with the two families when they are all having lunch together. All that misunderstandings came back during the lunch and it's a little comical at times seeing how the different people reacting to it. So when Sara thought her mother had not patched up with her childhood sweetheart, it happened and one surprise event came up of all these as well. Though Brian had enough of what is going on, it quite ended the way I wanted. One have to watch to get the idea.

Trying to look for some fun and laughs and a little of romance at the same time? Then this is recommended.

I thoroughly enjoyed this light hearted comedy. Laine Kazan an Paticia Heaton made the movie work. The other actors were perfect for the script. This is the story of many typical Italian families. Grudges are held and in some cases, some people never speak to one another again. If they do "kiss" and make up, it will be spectacular.

The scenery was great, the food made my mouth water. I wish I could have tasted that wine Sara made. It sounded very special. Apparently agreed on by all of the family.

A think a follow-up would be another clever comedy which many folks could enjoy.

If you've loved at all in your life, you'll enjoy this film. Actually, you'll enjoy it anyway, but you'll understand every nuance if you've been in love. This movie dances with every emotion and dynamic one experiences in a relationship of any substance; love, hatred, anger, betrayal, hurt, humor, power struggles, pride, fear. It's all wrapped up tightly in this movie and presented in a tender, subtle, yet gripping way that engages the viewer and gently holds your attention until the end. The acting is great, the emotions are real, and the presentation is lively, interesting, and even informative. I can't remember when I've seen a better balanced film; each role is important in piecing the message together and everyone involved does a great job. Very enjoyable. I challenge anyone to view this film without laughing and shedding a tear.