Mambo Italiano (Canada)

I loved this comedy film. I had seen it before long time ago but got an opportunity to catch it again and get a chance to review it on my blog. Based on a statement that there can be nothing worse than being gay and Italian, this film uses this thread to spun a story around it and what a story! I must say. Thoroughly entertaining and keeping viewer's interest alive all the film while keeping a smile on face, this film is worth sending your time on it.

This is the story of Gino and his family. His parents migrated to Canada right after their wedding. Anna and then Gino were born. Apparently Italian's dont move out of their house unless they get married or they die. Fearing this, Gino decides to take some action and move out. This comes as a huge surprise to his family and there is this whole melodrama. After moving out, Gino meets his childhood buddy Nino who once used to be very good friends with him but started ignoring Gino when Gino became the butt of all jokes in school and everyone teased him for being gay. Things have changed now. Nino moves in with Gino and they become lovers except Nino doesn't want anyone to know about this except the 2 of them because he too is Italian. Gino can't hide things anymore. When Anna suddenly discovers her brother in bed with Nino, Gino decides to tell his parents. They in turn tell Nino's parents. More emotional melodrama. Because of all this humiliation, Nino decides to move out and start dating a girl from school and decides to get married. Gino's heart is broken but he decides to move ahead in life despite that and meets a nice guy. Meanwhile, Nino does get married and there is a hint that he is still closet gay. Gino's parents finally come around and are proud to accept their son's sexuality.

The plot is thin but its the stereotypical Italian references that make the film so funny and watchable. The interactions between the neighbors, the hitting on head by parents for their children etc. It vaguely reminded me of 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding' but thats only because both the films showed a typical stereotype family. The film avoids showing or depicting any uncomfortable gay scenes between the 2 men so that people of all orientation can enjoy this film. The sets are visually rich and appealing, and are always colourful and carefully constructed. The character development is great, and we care about the characters in the film. Anna, as the neurotic sister is hilarious. The arguments of the parents are very lively and funny, and are entertaining to watch. I loved it when the arents decide what to do to RSVP for Nino's wedding. The church confesion scene towards the end of the film is also hilarious and so are so many other scenes. Gino was cute though I really didn't care much for Nino.

You really have to watch this film to enjoy it. (8/10)