Corrina, Corrina (1994) User Reviews

Writer/director Jessie Nelson finds a fine balance between the dramatic and comedic beats to make a remarkable motion picture...

[Extraordinary_Machine · 8/10 · 14 April 2005]

Corrina, Corrina

Manny Singer (Ray Liotta) is a struggling songwriter for a company that makes television commercials, who also has a loving wife and a daughter, Molly (Tina Majorino). When his wife dies, Manny's whole life falls apart, his daughter stops speaking, and he develops a creative block on his jingle-writing skills that threatens to get him fired. To solve one of these problems, he starts looking for a nanny for Molly, reluctantly settling on Corrina Washington (Whoopi Goldberg), a woman who has recently moved into town to stay with her sister, and who also happens to be black. Though far from the most efficient housekeeper in the town, Corrina clicks instantly with Molly, who eventually starts to speak again. Manny also takes a shine to Corrina, and a friendship soon forms between the two widows, but they can't seem to agree on what is best for Molly.

As easy as it may be to classify 'Corrina, Corrina' as a fifties-set drama, I'm inclined to resist this temptation, for two main reasons. Firstly, aside from the underlying comments about race, the fifties setting is used only as a backdrop, with the focus on a very heartfelt dramedy, which leads me to my second point. 'Corrina, Corrina' is certainly moving, and there are times when you may feel the need to reach for a box of tissues. But it's also quite hilarious as well, and writer/director Jessie Nelson finds a fine balance between the dramatic and comedic beats to make a remarkable motion picture. Liotta, Goldberg and Majorino give wonderful performances, and these really do feel like real characters. A real winner.

~ 8/10 ~

"Where have you been so long?"

[bkoganbing · 7/10 · 16 September 2019]

Ray Liotta a typical ad man from the Eisenhower 50s has just lost his wife and his daughter Tina Majorino her mother. He's needing a housekeeper and babysitter very badly. He starts interviewing a variety of candidates not all of them women. But Whoopi Goldberg playing the title role sort of ingratiates herself with both father and daughter.

Soon enough there's an attraction between the two of them, but this is not 2019 it is the 50s and before the Civil Rights Act. They get a lot of fisheyed stares and a racial crack or two. And that is both of them as Goldberg's own family says to stick to her own kind.

Whoopi's scenes with Tina are really special they're what drive the film. It also makes it a family film in every sense of the word.

Two movie oldtimers, K.T. Stevens and Don Ameche make their farewell appearances. Ameche has only a few scenes and you can see how the ravages of cancer are killing him slowly. A lot like Edward G. Robinson and Soylent Green.

There's also a nice performance by Erica Yohn as Liotta's mom and what a Yiddishe Mama she is. Ameche is his father.

This is a wonderful film and with interracial couples far more accepted now it's a look back on some brave people.

Eenie, Meanie, Miney, Mensch

[writers_reign · 8/10 · 9 April 2019]

This is one of those movies where you check your prejudices at the box office and cry 'uncle' as you take your seat and in return you get to wallow in pure entertainment with a bittersweet afterglow. It's a family movie in every sense of the word you can think of and features three leading performances that are well beyond magnificent. In a nutshell Ray Liotta's wife dies - presumably prematurely, traumatising their daughter to the extent that she becomes withdrawn and loses - at least temporarily - the ability to speak. The obvious solution is to hire a nanny/governess/therapist and this provides a sequence reminiscent of The Fabulous Baker Boys in which a succession of round pegs try out for the square hole position. Finally, as we knew would happen, the ideal candidate shows up in the shape of Whoopi Goldberg and leaves the opposition dead in the water. And now a theme - as opposed to a plot - rears its discreet head; Goldberg is as black as a yard up a chimney and Liotta is as kosher as bagels and lox and the year is 1959. Goldberg is clearly an honorary member of the Magic Circle and in nothing flat a once dysfunctional household is running as smoothly as a Patek Phillipe. If you have anything in your thoracic cavity this is a movie you can watch, enjoy, and be moved by, time and time again.

Great!!

[chaplins_charlie · 24 May 2003]

This movie was great and Tina Majorino did a beyond excellent job as Molly, the little girl who lost her mother and is coping with it by becoming mute and withdrawn. Whoopi Goldberg did wonderful as the nanny and girlfriend of the little girl's father. The little girl and nanny form a bond that noone would've thought, especially in the 1950's. I loved it!! Be ready to pull out the box of Kleenex for this one!! I know I did!!

good social commentary

[Bethsoda · 7/10 · 9 May 2004]

I think, what I have seen lacking in the comments about this film, are the sociological aspects that are addressed. In my opinion, the film is not just a sweet story, it speaks of the issues that our society has about both race and about social class in our society - both in the 50's as well as today. It IS a movie about love across social boundaries, it can also speak to the seeming obsession of society about the differences of, not only race, but also religion. What is wonderful about this movie is that it shows that this obsession goes both ways. And it has come to a point where, understandably,members of the most persecuted groups in out society, end up in situations, like in Corrina, Corrina, where they themselves are pressured by their own family and community to sever the relationship that they want to be in. This movie shows the pressure that both "sides" go through when deciding to enter an inter-racial or even an inter-faith relationship, and it shows that sometimes the pressure put on the member of a certain group in society goes through, more because their community feels, although often for good reasons, that the person of the "dominant" community, whatever it may be in whatever society, is not to be trusted. This movie shows that sometimes love and trust are true, regardless of the real and regardless of the sometimes imagined boundaries that society can place between people.

The help truly is invaluable.

[mark.waltz · 6/10 · 4 May 2021]

"We are not interested in publishing articles by unknown black women, no matter how talented they are." It's 1959, and Whoopi Goldberg's Corrina is a college graduate who still can't find a job outside of being someone's maid or cleaning woman. She gets a job working as the housekeeper and nanny for widower Ray Liotta whose daughter, Molly (Tina Majorino) has not spoken since her mother died. Corrina has a special way of dealing with her that eventually opens her up, and after that, she can't stop talking. She becomes very close with Goldberg and her family, and the grief stricken Liotta also begins to come back to life thanks to Goldberg's influence on their life. But this is no fantasia on race relations during a very trying time in America, and as much as she feels like an important member of Liotta's household, there are always reminders for her whether it be her own family or people in Liotta's social circle.

This has a really good screenplay that expresses some necessary ideals that are still being discussed over 60 years later. Goldberg is an independent-minded woman who has her own ideals, and she's tired of listening to the other women in her family try to match her up with available single black men or their feelings on her close relationship with her boss and his daughter. It's obviously a variety of prejudices from all angles that have to make the leading characters look into their own individuality to see what's right.

While mainly a drama, there are several scenes that are comical and funny, particularly the presence of Patrika Darbo as a bubbly yet impatient car hop waitress (whom Goldberg helps relax by having her sit in the back while dealing with mute Molly), Joan Cusack as the first nanny he hires who makes an unwanted pass at him and Wendy Crewson as a rather forceful admirer of Liotta's who is passive/aggressively racist and acts like one of the white women out of "The Help". Veteran actor Don Ameche is practically silent as Liotta's father, while Erica Yohn is commanding as his interfering mother. Another veteran actress, K. T. Stevens, has a bit role as one of Goldberg's many employers.

There's a scene where Molly refers to one of her young black friends with a racial slur, and is promptly admonished for her mistake. This scene involves children and shows how vulnerable and impressionable they can be, and it's a good lesson given to a white child from a black child as to how words can hurt. Another interesting aspect is the fact that Goldberg's character, a Christian, is admonished by Liotta for expressing her religious views, since Liotta and his late wife were atheists.

As Goldberg and Liotta get closer, their friendship seems to be moving into a romantic stage and you have to wonder how realistic that is for 1959. But as played by the two actors, you can't help but like their characters and at least want them to have some sort of understanding and friendship, and for young Molly to find happiness as well especially since she can't stand Jenny, played by Wendy Crewson. This is a sweet, thoughtful drama that while it has aspects that may not seem true to the period still brings you into it and makes you care about what happens.

Engaging and sweet-natured

[gcd70 · 6/10 · 5 June 2008]

Engaging, sweet natured comedy-drama from writer/producer/director Jessie Nelson. Story tells of a widower whose recent loss sees him hiring a maid/nanny to help keep house and mind his young daughter. The catch is Corrina is African-American, and when the two become close, society frowns. This is the fifties folks.

Nelson balances his film well, and shows an obvious love of children as he indulges in several cute scenes. Whoopi Goldberg and Ray Liotta turn in serviceable performances, but it is Tina Majorino who steals the show as the lovable ragamuffin who doesn't understand why Mommy isn't coming back. Don Ameche and Joan Cusack appear briefly. Rick Cox's enjoyable score is based upon themes composed by Thomas Newman.

Editor Lee Percy has allowed "Corrina, Corrina" to overstay its welcome just a little bit, but otherwise this is a touching, simple heart-warmer from Jessie Nelson that comes recommended to family audiences.

Monday, April 21, 1997 - Video

I expected more

[afms-97603 · 6/10 · 31 July 2018]

I thought the movie was really great overall but I expected a bit more of a development on Corrina's family, they seemed really great!

What truly disappointed me was how the movie ended. Although I liked that Corrina and Manny had a happy ending, I really wanted to see her succeed in her professional life. Maybe, instead of just a bouquet of flowers, Manny could have said something about Corrina's contributions in the making of the jingle. Or helped promote her fabulous work with his contacts, help her achieve her dreams.

Entertaining Comedy/Drama/Romance

[harry-76 · 9/10 · 16 March 2001]

Whoppie Goldberg excels in this thoroughly entertaining film. Ably supported by Ray Liotta, this duo clicks nicely in a surprisingly believable romantic comedy/drama.

Jessie Nelson's script reflects on a somewhat forgotten, yet thoroughly accurate, 50's neighborhood setting which existed in many parts of the country -- an environment generally overlooked by film subjects.

There's a nice lilt to the story, a surprising warmth projected to character portrayals, and an ingratiating blend of humor and drama. All in all, a very pleasant, relaxing family film, nicely directed by Nelson, and with an intelligent and sensitive performance by Goldberg.

A good story with a few problems

[SnoopyStyle · 6/10 · 29 June 2014]

Molly Singer (Tina Majorino) lost the will to speak after the death of her mother. Her father Manny (Ray Liotta) is helpless. He hires sassy nanny Corrina Washington (Whoopi Goldberg). She's educated and aspires to write for magazines. The interview doesn't go well but Molly seems to interact with her. Molly slowly opens up to Corrina. Manny is an atheist and so was his wife. Corrina comforts Molly by telling her that her mom is in heaven. His co-workers set him with Jenny Davis (Wendy Crewson) with her own two boys. Molly is being bullied at school and she doesn't want to go to school. It's the last 50s. Manny and Corrina develop a relationship and many people aren't happy about it.

I do have a problem with Liotta and Goldberg pairing. Goldberg has never been the romantic type and I don't see her with any sexual chemistry. That makes the relationship problematic for a mainstream movie. There seems to be a few other general problems in this movie. Writer/director Jessie Nelson sets up a lot of stuff but they all seem to be left unresolved. She sets up the religious angle and nothing really happens. There is the racial angle but it never heats up to a point of danger. That doesn't accentuate the drama. It's almost as if the movie is more scared of the material than the audience. Tina Majorino is adorable. She keeps the heart in this story. This could have been a much better movie.

Not bad if viewed as a fantasy film

[HAL-98 · 4/10 · 5 January 2001]

Not bad performances. Whoopi plays the wise/warm role quite well. Still, the storyline and situations can not be believed (forced PC stereotypes). At times it is good Jews and Blacks vs. the evil White Christians (ho-hum). A typical Hollywood fantasy. The film does have its moments, but it is not one that I would recommend to go out of your way to view.

Corrina, Corrina - BRAVO

[deniselthompson-1 · 10/10 · 15 May 2005]

I loved this movie. The acting was excellent, especially the three main stars, Whoopie, Ray and Tina, but the subject matter was handled well too. I think this movie shows that love has no color or financial restraints - it's about compassion, understanding, honesty, and companionship. I, too, have watched it again and again and still love it as much as the first time. And yes, Ray Liotta can act in just about any type of picture. I first saw Ray on soaps way back when and he has developed into one of my favorite actors. If he's in a picture, I want to see what he does with the role. Much like Don Cheadle. Massive talents that go largely unnoticed. And Ray's parents in the movie were excellent as well. It's just such a charming picture with strong, understated performances. I can't recommend it highly enough.

Hope springs eternal in the human breast - even mine.

[ianlouisiana · 7/10 · 28 August 2006]

"Corrina Corrina" is very much a film of the 1990s set in the 1950s. Miss Goldberg uses her tried and trusted "Feisty Black Woman" schtick but it doesn't sit well in a movie set in an era when,whether we like it or not,black people behaved very differently amongst white people. The Little Rock desegregation episode occurred as late as 1957 and the Civil Rights marches were some time in the future,few blacks felt secure enough to go against the wishes of their white employers or even cuss and swear in their presence. Clearly there is a strong political edge to this movie,it could hardly be otherwise given our current obsession with racial and religious tensions both in the U.S and the U.K.Black Christian woman and white atheist Jew fall in love - I'm not sure how convincingly - but conveniently,for the very basis of the movie is that love laughs at locksmiths.Would that it were true. From "Romeo and Juliet" onwards playwrights have been telling us it isn't,but we're still clinging on to the hope. A few remarkable people succeeded in ignoring the social pressures,but even in the 21st century race and religion are barriers that can prove insurmountable. Commendably, in "Corrina Corrina" nobody pretends it's going to be easy for Mr Liotta and Miss Goldberg.It is a measure of the film's effectiveness that I felt concerned for their future. There is some wonderful music,we hear Louis Armstrong and Oscar Peterson doing "You go to my head" and Mr Liotta and Miss Goldberg duet Bill Evans' "Peace piece" on the piano quite delightfully.The title of the film is derived from an old blues song. Despite the caveat of my first paragraph I did enjoy this movie. As the lights went up I realised that hope springs eternal in the human breast - even mine.

'Corrina, Corrina'

[tropical_sunrise35 · 23 January 2005]

A captivating drama / comedy that casts Ray Liotta as 'Manny Singer', a man who recently lost his wife and has his daughter Molly (Tina Majorino) to take care of, who was too sad and heartbroken to talk to anyone after her mother's death. As Manny tries to find a suitable 'nurse maid' for Molly so he can go back to work, Corrina Washington (in the form of Whoopi Goldberg) comes into the picture and eventually gets hired by Manny to take care of the little girl. The funny thing is, what the Singers weren't expecting was for Corrina to bring magic back into their lives. An endearing little treasure, 'Corrina, Corrina' is a motion picture filled with heart and laughter, that's sure to send your spirits soaring. Wendy Crewson is great in her supporting role as the not-so-nice and aggressive 'Jenny Davis'. Goldberg is absolutely terrific in the title role. A highly-recommended motion picture. Rating: Three 1/2 out of Five Stars (Very Good).

A true delight to watch over and over again.

[IheartCali5882 · 7/10 · 27 June 2010]

I've not read many bad reviews for this film, and when I do it's usually someone whining and complaining about Hollywoods liberal agenda and how this film is simply a poor manifestation of that. Sorry but not every film about controversial subjects has to have a hidden agenda. I strongly suspect it's something else entirely, mainly the fact that a White male and a Black woman have a romance and certain narrow-minded people don't like to see that. They don't come right out and say this, but instead blame it on typical "Hollywood liberalism".

I don't agree. I think the writers had a story to tell, and this just so happened to be the subject matter. And what a wonderful little story it is. It tells the story of how a widower, played by Ray Liotta, and his daughter (Tina Majorino) who are trying to pick up the pieces of their life after the death of the mother (who by the way is never shown in the film). Ray Liotta immediately begins looking for a nanny to watch after his daughter so he can return to work. Whoopi Goldberg, who plays the title character, is the only one who seems to be able to reach the daughter and bring her out of her shell. The dynamics of Tina and Whoopi's relationship are what give the movie a real special quality. Whoopi, as always, is a joy to watch. And I just can't say enough about Majorinos acting abilities at such a young age. She's simply a natural, and I'm totally shocked that her career didn't take off like it should have. She's unbelievable.

Corrina, Corrina mixes just the right amounts of levity and drama to create a warm, heartfelt film that's easy to watch over and over again. There are just so many little moments that I can only describe as "adorable". I'm usually not so syrupy about films, but with this one I just can't help it. It never gets old.

As sweet as a cupcake - a slightly guilty pleasure

[LouE15 · 7/10 · 15 April 2010]

Corrina, Corrina (for IMDb) I stubbornly refuse to sneer at this 'period' film, which I think was not critically well received. Some of its themes are close to my heart – but even without this I'd be inclined to smile on such a gentle film, with such great – and such consistently miscast – actors. It's the early 60s (isn't it?) and newly widowed Manny Singer (Ray Liotta, for once cast against type) is struggling to hold down a job as a jingles writer, while raising distraught daughter Molly on his own. (** Very minor spoilers from here**) He employs widow Corrina Washington, and their rocky road to an understanding, healing Molly along the way, is the subject of the film, played with gentle humour.

The small pleasures go on and on: Whoopi Goldberg in a film quiet and sedate enough to be a fine showcase for her super-dry wit; Ray Liotta, such a charismatic actor, finally getting to play a good guy, not a wise guy; the lovely child actress Tina Majorino, our eyes and ears in this film; the delightful ice cream hues, shot lovingly by serious cinematographer Bruce Surtees (much favoured by Clint Eastwood I believe); the elegiac inclusion of Don Ameche at the very end of his life; the supporting cast including the wonderful Curtis Williams as Percy. I could go on. All right, so in truth, not a lot happens; so the story isn't very original, more a hymn to a rosily remembered Jewish American childhood than great cinema - but so what? It's a pure pleasure to watch. Only one thing bothers me, given the interesting subtext of the film (**small spoiler**): why exactly, in 1994, did they need to make the kiss take place in near-total darkness (some 30 years after the period depicted in this film)? And whose decision was that?

at her whoopiest

[killercharm · 7/10 · 10 April 2021]

Whoopi Goldberg at her whoopiest. So cool, so hip, she's such a hipster. This semi-autobiographical beauty of a movie is set in the somewhat shallow fifties, a time when a person could dismiss someone at a glance. A very recent widower and his little daughter are suffering. They need real help dealing with the loss of the wife and mommy. That help arrives in the whirlwind that is Whoopi playing The Nanny. Her interaction with the two injured sweeties that are the papa and the daughter is priceless and necessary for their recovery. Everybody's happy. Or they would be except the nanny is black. The two she is working with are not. They are white, jewish in fact, which means quite white. It's a sweet strong story that I love.

Goldberg + Liotta + Jazz

[yusufpiskin · 7/10 · 14 August 2020]

Im hiking it up half a star because i really really really enjoyed it it was warm and good and kind

but i agree with this, that roger ebert said - roger ebert confessed that he enjoyed it but wrote, "...seems almost as shy as the characters about the charged issues of race and romance. After it was over I felt that, yes, it was warm and good-hearted, but there was more of a story there to be told." it could have delved a little deeper but i also liked that the movie took a sunnier voice but if it was going to anyway have these moments that touched the surface or moments that did touch on the topic of inter-racial relationships and racism the way it did, it would've benefitted from discussing it more. without that it feels a little half- hearted

i do want to find more reviews of it and so far only i can only find white people's reviews, which isn't a bad thing, i'd just like to rea a few more perspectives

but bottom line, the acting was really really great, the chemistry was good and i really loved it, the experience of watching it i guess also, i loved the casting

Thoughtful family story

[jazznme · 10/10 · 17 February 2003]

Thoughtful family movie. Makes you aware of how and why we like people.... for who they are, the total person, rather than exterior physicality. How and why we care for someone is the result of trust and liking that person. And having that person in your life, completes who you want to be.

Beautiful and Simple

[tereufuk · 10/10 · 17 January 2010]

I love the start of the movie: Feet and shoes of people in the funeral. We do not know how the mother died. They do not tell and we do not really need. I like movies that does not give excess information. It is also beautifully tangent with race issues without poking our eyes about it. Children's part in the movie was extra beautiful! There is a wonderful scene that starts with the gospel song "This little light of mine" where black and white kids are on the tree and asking each other "Do you taste like chocolate?" and the other asks "Do you taste like vanilla?" and then they lick each other to see. This is not just a cute movie but also simply substantial.

Delightful!

[Lew Graham · 29 August 2002]

My wife Rebecca is a fan of Ray Liotta so when this movie appeared on cable TV it had to be viewed. And what a surprise! The rapport between Ray and Whoopi Goldberg was very noticable. I don't know if it is so but there seemed to be a considerable amount of ad lib-ing. Some of the things that happened on screen could not have been scripted or the director's instructions. And the rapport between Whoopi and Molly (Tina Majorino later to be seen in "Waterworld") was just as impressive. But the theme of two minority groups (Jewish and Negro) coming together in the way they did was done in absolutely good taste and a delight to any liberal thinking viewers. It could have become a weepie but, for sure, I'm glad it didn't. I can't wait to see it again.

one of the best tearjerkers....

[StMick · 9/10 · 6 January 2001]

and I'm a guy!.......

I found this movie to be so touching about humanity and reaching out where one might otherwise perceive as strained and socially adhered roles. Ray Liotta can be a sensitive and strong man while finding that the barriers for middle aged white men need not be either macho or constrained to ideology.

Liotta allows one to open their heart to all the possiblilties it is to be both a modern man, as well as a compassionate man, searching for the answers. Goldberg is the "much more than" maid, housekeeper and nanny who softens one's heart - and especially the heart of Liotta to see himself as he is. We see that men and women can accept and expand upon their roles.

This theme has been done a few times before, but this version hits the guts and heart like no other. The sensitivity inherent in the scriptwriters MUST be commended for "untying" the lines of deception that society puts upon us all.

YES_ this may sound like a bit much for me to express about a Family Type movie, but maybe I feel this was becuase of just that. It is a perfect family movie that families across America can love, endear and embrace.

Triple feelgood and then some! How lovely, endearing, and heartwarming! And I am usually not at all into this sort of sentimental movies, but I truly loved this one!

[imseeg · 10/10 · 26 January 2019]

I mean really, this must be one of the ultimate feelgood pictures ever made. Ultimate family picture, although everyybody with a beating kind heart, will definitely feel good after watching this, because it is such an overwhelming, endearing, heartwarming feelgood experience WITHOUT ever getting cheesy sentimental though, thanks to the many great tongue in cheek jokes that are sparkled across.

The story is about a father (Ray Liotta) with a little girl whose wife suddenly dies. Stricken with grief the little girl wont speak anymore, that is to say untill a nanny (Whoopi Goldberg) comes along, who seems to be able (in her own quirky ways) to rejuvenate all the joy in this sad stricken girl. To see this little girl blossom again with the help of Whoopi is such a joyous experience, I dont know the equal of in other movies.

This director Jessie Nelson truly has got the talent to touch everybodies heart. I know, I know, all this praise must sound cheesy, but believe me I honestly usually dislike those sentimental family movies, but that is the greatest thing about "Corrina, Corrina", it gets to the sweetest places of my heart without any use of cheap sentiments whatsoever. This movie is as joyous and endearing AND simultaneously as true to life and real as one could ever hope for. Perfect heartwarming comedy! What a joy to watch!!! Ideally suited for young and old, black and white, alone or with the entire family.

A Gem Still Trying to Find Fans

[Michael_Elliott · 30 January 2018]

Corrina, Corrina (1994)

*** (out of 4)

After losing his wife at a young age, single father Manny (Ray Liotta) decides hire a housemaid named Corrina (Whoopi Goldberg) and this has a positive impact on his daughter Molly (Tina Majorino).

CORRINA, CORRINA is one of those films that was released to very little fanfare and it sadly didn't do too well at the box office. You'd hope it would get more attention on video but it didn't. You'd hope that at some point of its home video life more people would discover the film but as of me writing this it hasn't happened. At this point you have to wonder if it's just going to be one of those gems that never finds an audiance to enjoy it.

It's really too bad because the film is actually an exceptionally good one that features a very good and tender story as well as some great performances. The film is set in the 1950's so you've got the added drama of the racial tensions, which comes into play but the film never preaches but instead lets the drama play out in a realistic way. What's so great about the movie is that it's simply trying to tell a simple story about three people who need one another.

There are a lot of hilarious moments throughout the film as both Liotta and Goldberg are perfect in their roles. Having such capable actors means they are able to make you believe in the characters and make the characters feel real. You've also got great support from Majorino, Don Ameche and Joan Cusack. The film works the laughs perfectly but there are also some touching moments that will leave many grabbing for the tissues.

One would hope that CORRINA, CORRINA would eventually find more fans.

Pychiing wang

[bevo-13678 · 10/10 · 2 April 2020]

I like the bit where she blew and made the traffic lights go green.