“Moonstruck” was officially released in 1987 (same year RoboCop came out) earning praise from critics and movie goers alike. It was also a commercial success. Cher won an Oscar for “Best Actress.” It’s Christmas Month. Meaning, I’m reviewing a few holiday themed movies to get into the mood. Moonstruck court as a Christmas movie. It’s set near the holiday season. One more thing, Nicolas Cage will portray an alternate version of Spider-Man in an upcoming MGM+ series, “Spider-Man Noir.” It’ll stream in 2026.
It doesn’t matter if SPOILERS are listed. Moonstruck’s not a masterpiece most critics claim. Which Christmas movies should I review next? Please leave a comment.
Bright & Dark Aspects
Bright: Cher & Nicolas Cage both did a solid job for their respective performances.
Cinematography’s shot in stable condition.
Dean Martin’s “That’s Amore” is played during the Opening Credits and End Credits.
The film’s set around near Christmas season. It counts as a Christmas movie.
Random Thoughts
- Remember that slap scene with Loretta yelling, “Snap out of it?” Cher also said it when she gust starred in “Will and Grace.”
- I’m not a romance type of guy. I prefer action-adventure, sci-fi, fantasy and neo-noir thrillers.
Dark: Norman Jewison (In the Heat of the Night, The Thomas Crown Affair, Fiddler on the Roof) didn’t do so well directing.
John Patrick Shanley (Doubt) wrote a poorly cohesive script. I’m baffled he won an Oscar for “Best Original Screenplay” instead of “RoboCop” or “Predator.” They both have memorable dialogue.
I didn’t laugh at a single joke. Not one little bit.
Unfun Facts
- Criterion Collection selected Moonstruck as spine number 1056.
- American Film Institute or AFI for short ranked Moonstruck as number 47 in their list “AFI’s 100 Years… 100 Laughs.” Again, I didn’t laugh at a single joke. Not one little bit.
Chemistry between Loretta & Ronny didn’t feel authentic. They had an early romance lacking proper progression. They’re not a good couple. Loretta cheats on Johnny and sleeps with Ronny. Infidelity’s wrong or as Chosen One from “Kung Pow: Enter the Fist” once said, “Badong.” A mix between bad and wrong.
Besides Loretta & Ronny, every character is forgettable. Which is the film’s greatest sin. Not caring for a single character. Loretta & Ronny getting together at the end wasn’t satisfying.
The film’s dated. For instance, The Twin Towers are seen in the Opening Credits.
Pacing is off. Boring as heck. I’d rather replay “Disgaea 5 Complete.”
The Final Verdict: D-
Hate to break it to ya, but Moonstruck’s not a masterpiece. I’m baffled many people claim it’s great. I’m puzzled it won an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. If you wanna watch a better Christmas movie, watch “Lethal Weapon.” It’s one of my all-time favorite holiday themed movies.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 