Moonstruck
It's apparent very early that 1987's MOONSTRUCK is something special, unique. Almost magical. Director Norman Jewison must've cast some sorta spell. Maybe he really did treat this as if he were directing an opera or something. Yet for all its grandiose emotions it's a strangely calm, contemplative movie. The plot is old hat and worn. Not to mention predictable. It'd be tempting to say that one shouldn't pay it any mind but that would be unfair. John Patrick Shanley's screenplay really cares about its living, breathing characters and their hang ups. There are many. Loretta Castorini (Cher) is pushing 40 and lives with her parents in Brooklyn. Her first marriage ended when her husband was hit by a bus, and she's convinced the union was cursed. She's awfully superstitious about following traditions. Her sad sack boyfriend Johnny (Danny Aiello) - whom Loretta likes but does not love - awkwardly proposes marriage ...
