Some movies sneak up on you, offering not spectacle or suspense, but warmth. Nonnas, Netflix’s new feel-good feature, did just that for me this Mother’s Day. It’s the kind of film you settle into with a blanket and a cup of tea—or maybe a bowl of pasta—grateful for a story that’s more nourishing than flashy.
Based on the real-life story of Joe Scaravella and his now-famous Staten Island restaurant, Enoteca Maria, Nonnas follows Joe as he channels his grief over his mother’s passing into something generous and healing: a restaurant staffed not by trend-chasing chefs, but by grandmothers from around the world. Each “nonna” brings her recipes, stories, and heart to the kitchen—and, in turn, to Joe’s life and the lives of his patrons.
The simplicity of the film is one of its strengths. The setting doesn’t try to dazzle—because it doesn’t need to. The focus is squarely on the food, the memories, and the community that has been built around it. You can almost smell the sauce simmering and hear the kitchen clatter as these women work their magic.
The cast is fabulous across the board. Vince Vaughn, portraying Joe Scaravella, shows surprising restraint in this role. He dials down his usual fast-talking bravado and leans into something quieter, more grounded. It’s a good look for him—and the movie. The actresses who play the nonnas are a true highlight: Susan Sarandon as Gia, Lorraine Bracco as Roberta, Talia Shire as Teresa, and Brenda Vaccaro as Antonella. Each brings a unique blend of humor, heart, and heritage that anchors the emotional core of the film. Beyond their performances, there’s a crackling chemistry between them—playful bickering, tender moments, and a shared sense of resilience that feels lived-in. The sparks they strike against and with each other lend the story a vibrancy that goes well beyond the script.
Also worth noting is Joe Manganiello’s performance as Bruno, Joe’s best friend. He brings levity and warmth in just the right measure, grounding Joe when he wavers and reminding us of the essential role chosen family can play. What makes Nonnas land emotionally is that it’s rooted in truth. These aren’t caricatures of Italian grandmothers. They’re reflections of real women with real histories and real food. That added layer of reality makes the movie all the more heartwarming. You walk away not just feeling entertained, but also connected to the characters, the culture, and perhaps even your memories of family kitchens.
For me, it was a lovely Mother’s Day diversion. I wasn’t expecting much when I hit play, but Nonnas delivered a gentle, satisfying story that lingered like a good meal. It’s not a cinematic revelation, but it doesn’t need to be. Sometimes, kindness, memory, and homemade gnocchi are more than enough.