True Love (I) (1989)

Donna and Michael are getting married. But first, they have to plan the reception, get the tux, buy the rings, and cope with their own uncertainty about the decision. Michael fears ... See full summary »

Director:

Nancy Savoca

Writers:

Nancy Savoca, Richard Guay

Stars:

Annabella Sciorra, Ron Eldard, Aida Turturro

4 wins & 3 nominations.

Cast

Cast overview, first billed only:
Annabella Sciorra	...	Donna
Ron Eldard	...	Michael
Aida Turturro	...	Grace
Roger Rignack	...	Dom
Star Jasper	...	JC
Michael Selkirk	...	Brian (as Michael J. Wolfe)
Kelly Cinnante	...	Yvonne
Rick Shapiro	...	Kevin
Suzanne Costollos	...	Fran
Vincent Pastore	...	Angelo (as Vinny Pastore)
Marianne Leone	...	Carmella
Marie Michaels	...	Chickie
Anna Vergani	...	Grandma
John Nacco	...	Benny
Ann Tucker	...	Barbara

Storyline

Donna and Michael are getting married. But first, they have to plan the reception, get the tux, buy the rings, and cope with their own uncertainty about the decision. Michael fears commitment. Donna has her doubts about Michael's immaturity. Both are getting cold feet.

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Plot Keywords:

uncertainty | tuxedo | lingerie | beer | argument | 

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Genres:

Comedy | Romance

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Certificate:

R

Details

Country:

USA

Language:

English Italian

Release Date:

15 September 1989 (USA)

Also Known As:

Ahavat Emet

Filming Locations:

Bronx, New York City, New York, USA

Box Office

Gross:

$1,400,000 (USA)

Company Credits

Production Co:

J&M Entertainment

Technical Specs

Runtime:

104 min

Sound Mix:

Dolby

Color:

Color

Aspect Ratio:

1.85 : 1

Did You Know?

Quotes

Donna: I don't know. You know, sometimes he does things like last night and I just want to fucking kill him. And then I see him.

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Crazy Credits

Michael and Donna's black-and-white wedding video plays during much of the end credits. There is also a short color scene of the flower girl and ring bearer during the end credits.

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Connections

References Last Tango in Paris (1972)

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Soundtracks

"Cool Johnny"
Written by Rhonda Bush
Performed by Skinny Boys

User Reviews

Well worth my time...

Wonder why more people haven't commented on this Sundance film festival winner? Maybe because it's a very niche film.

Extremely well done study of New York Italian American culture on all levels; the food, the sex; the dysfunctional relationships with each other and with the church; the constant cursing; the weakness of the men and the strength of the women (Who really rules?) As well as the love; the camaraderie; the family support and acceptance with, "This too shall pass attitude and it will be better."

I agree with one of the reviewers that some of the characters were not well developed. It was not important to develop them. Anyone knowing the culture can fill in the blanks. Maybe not such a good technique for "outsiders". Perhaps a reason why it has not become a popular film.

It's also a very astute study of male female relationships and a view at the difference between men and women.

This is the second film I've seen by Savoca and I love the way she just says, "This is it! It is what it is!": No judgement values, no preaching just take it or leave it. Make up your own mind, while she presents all aspects "good and bad".

Well worth my two hrs., and maybe yours.