Claysaba Excellent, Without a doubt!!

Forumrxes Yo, there's no way for me to review this film without saying, take your *insert ethnicity + "ass" here* to see this film,like now. You have to see it in order to know what you're really messing with.

BelSports This is a coming of age storyline that you've seen in one form or another for decades. It takes a truly unique voice to make yet another one worth watching.

Guillelmina The film's masterful storytelling did its job. The message was clear. No need to overdo.

Amy Adler In New Jersey, there are two well-established fireworks manufacturers. Family Bazzini, led by Pops (Giancarlo Giannini) concocts many innovative designs and has the whole family, including his wife Contessa (Talia Shire) working in their large shop. The other folks, the Zitos, are helmed by Tough Mama (Anna Maria Alberghetti) and a bevy of sons. Yet, the Zitos are always out to buy or steal recipes from the Bazzinni's, because they recognize that Pops is a superior inventor. Also, their financial position becomes more precarious when Pops Jr dies in a tragic accident at the shop, while having a clandestine affair. His widow, Val (Bridget Fonda), blonde and smart, is not Italian like the rest but totally committed to the family. Her only child, Bobby, refuses to speak after his dad's death. Aha, Mama Zito, sensing an opportunity, sends one of her sons to try and get Val out on a date, and, perhaps, get married in time. Yet, other things may throw her off kilter. Pops, still grieving and angry at this lost son, writes to his family back in Italy and begs for a creative cousin to come take his child's place. This Giovanni (Stanley Tucci), thwarted in love, has attempted clumsy suicide after suicide, with no luck. A strolling cafe violinist, he seizes on this new invitation to change his life. Once installed in family Bazzini, its obvious that Giovanni has eyes immediately for Val and that he may be able to bring young Bobby out of his traumatic silence. More importantly, with the Zitos breathing down their necks, can Giovanni provide the spark needed to invent the "best" fireworks in the region? This lovely, sweet, and funny film is a total treat. Yes, there may be some stereotypes of Italian Americans involved but weren't there some in other movies such as Moonstruck? The cast is wonderful, too, with Tucci transforming himself into a bumbling Italian while its so fabulous to see Giannini, Shire, and Alberghetti on screen. Most lovely of all is Fonda, who made this movie her last. She looks so beautiful as the blonde surrounded by brunettes and she gives a most touching and strong performance. In addition, the scenery, costumes, lively script and direction provide a most enjoyable film experience. Want to add a bit of fireworks to your life some future evening? Get The Whole Shebang and sparks will light up your sky.

ellism This film offered another great performance by Stanley Tucci. He reminds me a lot of Roberto Benigni and the style of this movie is similar to movie's like Johnny Stecchino. Bridget Fonda's role was less successful. Giancarlo Giannini's performance as the family father is superb. He is fascinating to watch. The style of the story and direction has a European relaxed attitude which is a refreshing change from so many overdone Hollywood formula efforts. It's not deep and its more visual than thoughtful, but the spirit is right. The soundtrack is a fun mix of 50's style Italian oldies and make you want to join in with a big glass of red wine. It's romantic schmaltz and I like it. Have fun!

artzau C'mon. Aren't you glad to see a movie about Italians and Italian-Americans that's got absolutely nothing to do with the mafia, vendettas or spaghetti? This little piece is a wonderful and entertaining film about fireworks, family, food, life, death, deceit, trauma, pride and, of course, love. If you know Italians as well as I do, you'll recognize that this is all in a day's work. Stereotypes aside, they shook out the box on this one with Talia Coppola Shire, Gaincarlo Giannini, Tony DeSando and the uncompilable Anamaria Alberghetti. This latter is one year older than I am and still looks like a million dollars plus interest. Then there's Fonda the younger and Tucci. Yes, Tucci, who steals every scene he's in ala Peter Sellers. Tucci with the great eyes and great face. What could be a cheesy, maudlin, drippingly sentimental story moves quickly because of the chemistry of these people who play wonderfully off of each other and keep you amused with the same Mediterranean hyperbole you saw in Moonstruck, My Cousin Vinny, The Rose Tattoo and My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Now, we all know that every Italian family does not go into a state of crisis every day but the complexity of Italian familial relations does give us food for thought in delightful comedies such as this one.

daveandalexis This movie is very pretty to look at, with terrific editing and soundtrack. The story is warm and sweet, but not the least bit treacley. The very first scene immediately draws you into what's to come. A comforting "family is what it's all about" moral with a wonderfully awkward love story.