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Nonnas’ Review: A Heartwarming Tribute to Family, Food, and Finding Joy After Loss
Nonnas , the latest heartfelt dramedy from director Stephen Chbosky (Wonder , The Perks of Being a Wallflower ), it’s as comforting as a plate of Nonna’s homemade pasta. Inspired by the real life Staten Island restaurant Enoteca Maria , this film follows Joe Scaravella (Vince Vaughn), a grieving son who risks everything to honor his late mother by opening an Italian restaurant staffed entirely by Italian grandmothers. With its mix of humor, sentimentality, and mouthwatering food visuals, Nonnas is a cozy watch perfect for Mother’s Day weekend or any day you need a warm hug in movie form.
A Story That Feels Like Coming Home
The plot centers on Joe (Vince Vaughn), a blue collar New Yorker who loses his beloved mother the heart of their family and the source of countless Sunday dinners filled with love and laughter. Struggling to find meaning after her passing, Joe decides to open an Italian restaurant that recreates those cherished family meals. To bring authenticity to his vision, he enlists a team of spirited Italian nonnas (played by Susan Sarandon, Talia Shire, Lorraine Bracco, and Brenda Vaccaro) to take charge of the kitchen.
But running a restaurant isn’t easy, especially when locals resist an outsider taking over a beloved neighborhood spot, and financial troubles loom large. As Joe fights to keep his dream alive, he learns valuable lessons about resilience, community, and finding joy in the present even when life feels overwhelming.
What makes Nonnas so special is its ability to balance lighthearted moments with emotional depth. The film doesn’t rely solely on laughs or romance; instead, it focuses on universal themes like grief, legacy, and the importance of human connection. Every scene feels genuine and relatable, making it easy to root for Joe and his found family of nonnas .
Vince Vaughn Steps Into a Softer Role
Vince Vaughn takes on a quieter, more subdued role than we’re used to seeing from him a grieving son navigating loss while trying to build something meaningful. While his performance won’t win awards, it’s solid enough to anchor the story. Where the film truly shines, however, is in the performances of its supporting cast. Susan Sarandon brings warmth and wit as Gia, the most flamboyant of the nonnas , while Talia Shire delivers a poignant portrayal of Teresa, a woman grappling with regrets from her past. Lorraine Bracco and Brenda Vaccaro add plenty of sass and humor, creating dynamic interactions that feel authentic and endearing.
Themes That Resonate Universally
At its core, Nonnas explores themes like family, loss, and the courage to embrace new beginnings even late in life. It asks: How do we honor the people we’ve lost? Can stepping out of our comfort zones lead to unexpected joy? These questions make the story resonate deeply, particularly for anyone who has experienced the pain of losing a loved one or the healing power of shared meals and memories.
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its focus on the nonnas themselves. Each grandmother brings her own unique struggles whether it’s mourning a lost partner, battling physical ailments, or fearing change but they all find renewed purpose through Joe’s restaurant. Scenes like their first meeting or preparing for opening night are some of the most introspective and uplifting moments in the film, showcasing the beauty of second chances and the bonds of found family.
Final Verdict: Should You Watch It?
Yes—especially if you’re looking for a feel-good film that tugs at your heartstrings without being overly heavy handed. Nonnas may not break new ground cinematically, but its charm lies in its simplicity and sincerity. Strong performances from Sarandon, Shire, and the rest of the cast elevate the material, making it a delightful addition to Netflix’s lineup.
While Vince Vaughn’s toned down performance might disappoint fans of his trademark snark, the film ultimately succeeds as a tribute to family, food, and the enduring spirit of women who refuse to let life pass them by. Whether you’re watching solo or sharing it with your own nonna , Nonnas is a comforting reminder that even in loss, there’s always room for love and maybe a little tiramisu.