[The following story contains spoilers from the Netflix movie Nonnas.]
In the Netflix film titled “Nonnas“, which is based on Joe Scaravella’s restaurant focused on grandmothers in Staten Island, the character played by Vince Vaughn, named Joe, becomes motivated to establish a fictional Enoteca Maria following his mother’s passing. This new establishment serves as a means for him to preserve his mother’s memory, as he believes that food symbolizes love.
The deep bond was evident, albeit unseen on screen, between Vaughn and the star-studded cast of grandmothers portrayed by Susan Sarandon, Brenda Vaccaro, Talia Shire, and Lorraine Bracco. Additionally, this connection was palpable between Joe Manganiello, who plays Scaravella’s actual best friend, and the duo comprising married writer Liz Maccie and director Stephen Chbosky.
At the premiere of the film, Maccie shared with The Hollywood Reporter what drew her to the genuine heart, kindness, and goodness of the story behind Nonnas. She expressed feelings of gratitude for having the opportunity to contribute something positive to the world. Additionally, she found a personal connection in the story as it mirrored aspects of her own upbringing in an Italian-American family from New Jersey. Food, for them, was more than just sustenance; it served as another form of communication. Therefore, writing a movie that showcased the love of food, tradition, and legacy was an obvious choice for her.
And it was the bond between characters that attracted Sarandon and Manganiello to the film.
Sarandon expressed her attraction towards the opportunity to collaborate with numerous talented women, as such opportunities are not always readily available.
She mentioned, “I’m fond of groups, and I cherish being in a home-like setting, and this is all about family bonds, and we’ve become like a family.
As a gaming enthusiast, I was captivated by several factors that drew me in. Being a fan of Chbosky, Vaughn, and the remarkable Drea de Matteo who portrayed my on-screen spouse, was definitely one of them. Additionally, grasping this uncommon chance to embody an Italian character and delve into comedy was irresistible. Lastly, the script was simply fantastic!
Regarding my character’s development, it revolves around his bond with Vince. I found their male friendship incredibly entertaining – the humor in how poorly men often communicate is spot on. Moreover, I loved the way our characters engage in playful fights that might make others feel anxious.
And the actor recalled the “fun” he and Vaughn had hanging out with their real-life counterparts.
One evening, Vince and I visited the authentic Enoteca Maria, where we spent time with Joe and Bruno as the grandmothers prepared our meal,” he shared. “It was really enjoyable spending time with them, and I got a great opportunity to learn from them too.
In regards to Netflix’s purchase of a film produced prior to the 2023 actor’s strike, producer Rachel Shane stated that Netflix’s backing was vital, according to THR.
The Madison Wells chief creative officer explained their choice to house the project on Netflix by saying they wanted maximum visibility for the film. “It’s exactly what people require at this moment: a sense of family, connection within a community, food, opportunities for growth and redemption – particularly for older women,” they added. “And I must say, no one else has shown as much enthusiasm and support for it as Netflix has.
At the premiere of Nonnas, Bracco joyfully embraced Chbosky and Maccie, describing her work experience with them as a “celebration of love.” Initially reserved, her character Roberta seems to develop an attraction towards her fellow chefs.
Initially, she wasn’t overly enthusiastic about them, but gradually, as we shared meals and spent time in the kitchen, we grew closer to one another,” Bracco explained to THR.
Despite Bracco’s character being not only Joe’s mother’s best friend but also having her own family consisting of children and grandchildren, it is revealed that she has been estranged from them throughout the movie, only making contact via a phone call near its conclusion. On the other hand, Vaccaro’s Antonella resides alone following her husband’s demise and her relatives’ relocation, expressing regret over their infrequent visits. Lastly, neither Shire’s Teresa nor Sarandon’s Gia have had children.
Or in a more conversational style:
Bracco’s character is not only friends with Joe’s mom but also has her own kids and grandkids. However, we learn that she’s been distant from them throughout the movie, only reaching out near the end via a phone call. Meanwhile, Vaccaro’s Antonella lives alone since her husband died and her family moved away, wishing they visited more often. Shire’s Teresa and Sarandon’s Gia never had kids of their own.
Although the grandmothers (nonnas) aren’t shown interacting closely with their grandkids on screen, according to Maccie, this was done “deliberately.
She explained to THR that it’s crucial to note they formed a bond akin to a family. For her, family isn’t just about blood relations; it encompasses those you break bread with, your neighbor, even the person living across the street. Familial relationships can take various forms.
Maccie commented, drawing attention to Vaccaro’s character discussing “elderly women in her circle who have raised children now living across the nation,” saying, “She was a beacon for me, illustrating the essence of motherhood and grandmotherhood – that the ultimate goal is for your offspring to carve their own paths, to venture out and live independently. While you may not see them as often, there’s an overwhelming sense of pride.
Chbosky noted, “We also discussed how frequently, women at a certain stage of life are identified solely by their roles within a family or as grandmothers. Instead, we felt it was innovative to emphasize their identity as women and the unique things they do, which we believed offered a refreshing perspective.
Sarandon also admired the film’s portrayal of women from a specific era. “For a long time, women have been the backbone of families, and it’s somewhat melancholic that there aren’t more grandmothers around to grow old in someone’s home with their grandchildren. I believe we should cherish those life lessons and recipes.
The actress, known for her outspoken political views, drew attention prior to Netflix purchasing it due to her contentious remarks at a 2023 pro-Palestinian rally, which she later apologized for. At the premiere of Nonnas, Sarandon reaffirmed her backing for the Palestinian cause by wearing an Artists4Ceasefire badge. When questioned about her aspirations in a polarized American political environment, Sarandon shifted the conversation towards the Middle East, expressing her wish that Palestine would not only endure but also gain independence: “I hope Palestine will persist and be liberated.
Speaking directly about Sarandon’s comments in 2023, Chbosky mentioned that the movie, in fact, emphasizes the importance of respecting diverse perspectives, a value that was evident on set, and it forms a crucial aspect of the film itself.
In his words, “Our team, both cast and crew, seems to hold diverse political views, as far as I can tell. Everyone has their own opinions, which is perfectly fine. What’s truly remarkable is that we have individuals like Vince, who lean towards libertarianism, and Susan, who are more liberal, yet they share a deep respect for each other. The movie itself is a testament to this mutual respect.
It was this kind of respect that the genuine Scaravella held towards Sarandon, as well as his frequent patrons who had booked tables at Enoteca Maria, that he displayed when the Academy Award-winning actress unexpectedly needed a table immediately following her commitment to Nonnas.
On a Friday, I’m in pre-production. Susan Sarandon has agreed to star in our film. Susan’s assistant, Madison – a delightful individual – phoned me and shared that Susan would like a table for four tomorrow evening at six o’clock. I contacted Joe, said, ‘Susan Sarandon wants a table for four at six o’clock.’ His initial reaction was something like, ‘Wow, amazing! But I can’t do that to my regulars.’ He later called back and suggested, ‘How about 6:30?’
Nonnas is now streaming on Netflix.
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2025-06-16 06:25