Nonna’s (2024) Movie Review: A Warm, Flavorful Celebration of Family and Food
Title: Nonnas
Director: Stephen Chbosky
Genre: Drama / Comedy / Culinary
Starring: Vince Vaughn, Susan Sarandon, Lorraine Bracco, Talia Shire, Linda Cardellini
Release Year: 2024
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Overview
Nonnas is a heartwarming culinary dramedy that invites you into the kitchens — and hearts — of Italian grandmothers. Based on the real-life story of Joe Scaravella and his Staten Island restaurant Enoteca Maria, the film serves up a flavorful story about second chances, traditions, and the power of food to heal and connect generations.
With an ensemble of powerhouse women and Vince Vaughn in a refreshingly grounded role, Nonnas offers a nostalgic, tender look at what it means to find family where you least expect it.
Plot Summary
Joe (played by Vince Vaughn) is a middle-aged man at a crossroads in life. Still mourning the loss of his mother and stuck in a routine job, he finds unexpected purpose after a spontaneous trip to Staten Island leads him to a group of spirited grandmothers — nonnas — who cook authentic dishes from their home countries.
Inspired by their wisdom and culinary mastery, Joe opens a restaurant that celebrates these matriarchs, each taking turns in the kitchen sharing meals from their culture. As the restaurant gains popularity, so do the relationships Joe builds with these women — each meal bringing him closer to healing his own grief.
Performance & Direction
Vince Vaughn steps away from his usual comedic bravado to deliver a subtle, moving performance as Joe. He carries the emotional weight of the film with nuance, creating a character that feels authentic and deeply human.
The supporting cast — featuring Susan Sarandon, Talia Shire, and Lorraine Bracco — steals the show. These women embody the warmth, humor, and sass of real Italian grandmothers, offering performances that are equal parts comforting and commanding.
Director Stephen Chbosky (The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Wonder) brings his signature emotional clarity to the story, creating a film that feels both cinematic and deeply personal. The pacing is gentle but purposeful, much like the simmering of a good pasta sauce.
Themes & Tone
At its core, Nonnas is about grief, connection, heritage, and the simple joy of a home-cooked meal. It avoids melodrama and instead leans into heartfelt, often humorous interactions that feel earned rather than exaggerated.
Expect to laugh, tear up, and — most of all — feel hungry. The food cinematography is beautifully done, highlighting traditional dishes with care and reverence.
Strengths
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Authentic representation of immigrant stories and culinary culture
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Strong female performances with generational depth
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Warm, uplifting tone perfect for a family movie night
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Cinematic comfort food — familiar, but deeply satisfying
Weaknesses
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Predictable plot beats (especially in the second act)
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Occasionally leans too heavily on sentimentality
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Some side characters feel underdeveloped
Final Verdict
Nonnas is the cinematic equivalent of sitting down at your grandmother’s table — filled with laughter, life lessons, and delicious food. While it may not reinvent the genre, it shines through its sincerity, standout performances, and celebration of cultural traditions.
If you’re looking for a feel-good film with heart and heritage, Nonnas deserves a spot on your watchlist.
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