At the risk of being rather twee, the 2025 film Sunday at Il Posto Accanto is about coming out. No that way, but coming out after the COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. A local family run NYC restaurant; Il Posto Accanto, welcomes the neighbourhood to a party. One that friends and neighbours can enjoy.
The film is a lighthearted look at a decades old family restaurant. It is owned/run by Julio Pena and Beatrice Tosti di Valminuta. They want to celebrate with their neighbourhood.
The Sunday at Il Posto Accanto Story
Julio and Beatrice want to show their appreciation to their customers. Those folks who helped to maintain the restaurant during the pandemic. Meanwhile, Sixto, who has been living with the couple, is sent on a mission. He needs to get Danny out of his apartment. Since the Pandemic, Danny had become a recluse. He has a lot of issues.
The Cast
Victor Rasuk is Sixto.
Danny Hoch is Danny.
Judy Marte is Roxanna.
Arty Nelson is Arty.
Trudy Poux is Amy.
Beatrice Tosti di Valminuta self.
Julio Pena self.
C.W. Smith is Chad.
Let’s Talk Sunday at Il Posto Accanto
This slice of life in city life in NYC, makes me think of Nonnas (2025) another film about a restaurant. However, the two films are nothing alike really. One, Nonnas is about opening an eatery. This one is about celebrating being alive. It also about giving back.
Both films are about love.
Writer/Director Seth Zvi Rosenfeld takes us down to the city at street level. The real life story of Julio and Beatrice are the heart of this story. The plight of Danny is the sub-story here. It reflects what many people went through during and after the pandemic. He refuses to go out, terrified of what might happen.
There is a lot going on here though. Sixto has issues of his own that he must conquer. He is living with Julio and Beatrice and has overstayed his welcome. The young man is ordered to get Danny to come to the celebration.
This Works
The mix for Sunday at Il Posto Accanto has something for everyone. Love, missed signals, struggle with mental health being a few. Mostly, though, it is about hope, gratitude and love for your neighbourhood.
It is as intimate as it is broad reaching. The cast are a combination of actors and real customers who helped to make the film. This was shot over six days. Rosenfeld shows us the eccentricities and the affection of the owners. He also gives us a look at the personalities in this NYC community.
The Verdict
Sunday at Il Posto Accanto is a solid 5 star effort. This is pure independent cinema. Stories that entertain and tell a story of people being people. It may not be to everyone’s taste, but I adored it. It is premiering on Apple TV + October 1st.
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