The 2025 low-key comedy Nonnas is a love letter. One about familial memories, food and that special connection between youth and their grandparents. All, pretty much, based around family meals and the kitchen.
Based on the true story of Joe Scaravella and his small group of Nonnas who brought a dream to life. A place where customers could savour food like “Nonna” used to make.
Vince Vaughn and Netflix give us a film that will leave you with a lump in the throat. You will also have and a case of the warm “fuzzies.” This is a pleasurable as your own “Nonna’s” Sunday gravy.
the story
Joe has just lost his mother. He has also lost his way. The man struggles until his best mate Bruno suggests that he take the insurance money and invest it. Joe likes this idea and the seed of Enoteca Maria Restaurant is sown.
We follow Joe as he finds and hires Nonnas to cook the meals that he remembers from his childhood. Despite a number of setbacks, Joe succeeds in his endeavor. He also succeeds in love and friendship.
The main cast
Vince Vaughn is Joe Scaravella.
Linda Cardellini is Olivia.
Joe Manganiello is Bruno.
Drea de Matteo is Stella.
The Nonnas
Talia Shire is Teresa.
Brenda Vaccaro is Antonella.
Susan Sarandon is Gia.
Lorraine Bracco is Roberta.
Karen Giordano is Nonna.
The Excellent Cameo
Michael Rispoli is Al.
it works
Nonnas works on so many levels. It is a film about a personal journey. One that includes the realization of memories and starting new ones. At one point, Joe makes the Sunday Gravy of his youth. He also begins a relationship with Olivia.
I had a small lump in my throat by the end credits. But, as the opening paragraph states, there was also that lovely warm fuzzy feeling of a delightful story well told.
It goes without saying that Nonnas is funny in all the right places.
Behind the Camera
Director Stephen Chbosky takes the tale written by Liz Maccie “inspired by Joe’s real life story,” and mixes it like that Sunday Gravy. The music scored by Marcelo Zarvos is a perfect fit for the theme and the time period. The design and the sets are cozy and they draw you into the action.
Cast is king/Queen
The casting for Nonnas is nigh on perfect. Vaccaro, a personal favorite was brilliant. *To be fair, all the Nonnas were spot on.* The film gives us a chance to see Cardellini once again, always a good thing. There could have been more Rispoli though. I have been a fan since While you Were Sleeping, “I love black underwear’s…”
the verdict
Nonnas is a massive 5 star film Netflix and Vince Vaughn have delivered a delightful treat. One that draws the viewer into this wonderful world of food and Italian familial territory. You can watch it on Netflix.
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