Richard Dreyfuss and Holly Hunter lead an all-star cast in this critically acclaimed tale of life, love and chance. Jilted by her boyfriend, Renata (Hunter), the oldest daughter of a close-knit Italian-American family, fal... more »ls in love with Sam (Dreyfuss), an abrasive and forcefully charming businessman. But neither her spirited sister (Laura San Giacomo), her down-to-earth father (Danny Aiello), or her supportive mother (Gena Rowlands) can tolerate Sam's often obnoxious intrusion into their family circle. Aggressive and overwhelmingly generous, Sam proceeds - with only the best intentions - to disrupt and nearly demolish Renata's family. Love, humor and forgiveness go once more around as the Bellas try to balance Renata's happiness with their family's survival in this funny and often touching story, directed by Lasse Hallstrom.« less
Really entertaining with an all-star cast of characters. The movie took a dip for the worst but made a comeback finish winning first place! A must watch!
Movie Reviews
One of the most overlooked films!
Kevin Stafford | Warwick, RI | 09/30/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is a true gem of a story about love and family. Richard Dreyfuss, Holly Hunter and Danny Aiello should have all been nominated for oscar's for their incredible performances in this quiet masterpeice. If you don't shed a tear and feel better about your life after watching this film. You are missing emotion. What surprises me is why this has never gotten released on DVD yet! Buy It! Rent It! Watch it! and "Fly To The Moon"!"
Rich and lusty with life
Carollyn Sutter | Everywhere Icango | 03/19/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"A cast of Richard Dreyfus, Holly Hunter, Gena Rowlands & Danny Aiello would be hard to beat. Their characters are all richly expressed. Richard Dreyfus plays a wonderful role in this film and he does it with a fascinating lustiness. It is my favorite of his many excellent portrayals and one of my favorite movie characters. This film is perfect for a story of family, for romance and both can't-take-my-eyes-or-hands-off-of-you new love and matured love and for a plot that you can't forsee which carries you headlong through joy and sadness and a wealth of other emotions. There are some unique and memorable visual images.I've seen this movie a dozen times and appreciate it more each time. Like a great book, you are sorry when it ends and you have to part company."
Once Around Deserves one more time around
Greg Brunello | Golden Valley, MN United States | 07/02/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"What a great film. Holly Hunter and Richard Dreyfus shined in this movie. I have seen this film at least 10 times and every time I cry. What a beautiful love story."
A masterpiece in need of recognition
Ralph E. Roe Sr. | Crafton, PA USA | 06/21/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Richard Dreyfuss shows a dimension not previously demonstrated. His persona as a self-absorbed success who is unaware that he hurts others, reminds me of so many people I know in real life. Ditto Holly Hunter as a Plain Jane searching for love. Danny Aiello and Gena Rowlands, once again, show us that thier talents are used to perfection. Halle Hallstrom seems incapable of making a bad movie. That this picture failed to find its audience in first run, can now be corrected thru home video. I am looking for a DVD release, but in the meantime, my VHS tape holds up after repeated viewings. As with Moonstruck, you don't have to be Italian to love this film!"
It's all about the talent
G. Mazza | brooklyn, new york | 01/09/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"there are some movies you can watch over and over again, and get something out of it every time. the cast, to me, is what makes the movie. the best actors. it works so well. love it."