Moonstruck (1987)

Comedy Drama Romance
→ Influenced 5 films ← Inspired by 5 films

37-year-old Italian-American widow Loretta Castorini believes she is unlucky in love, and so accepts a marriage proposal from her boyfriend Johnny, even though she doesn't love him. When she meets his estranged younger brother Ronny, an emotional and passionate man, she finds herself drawn to him. She tries to resist, but Ronny, who blames his brother for the loss of his hand, has no scruples about aggressively pursuing her while Johnny is out of the country. As Loretta falls for Ronny, she learns that she's not the only one in her family with a secret romance.

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Connections

← Inspired By

Beauty and the Beast
Beauty and the Beast (1946)1
 Peggy Sue Got Married
Peggy Sue Got Married (1986)2
 La Dolce Vita
La Dolce Vita (1960)3
 Metropolis
Metropolis (1927)4
 The Graduate
The Graduate (1967)5

→ Influenced

Dan in Real Life
Dan in Real Life (2007)6
 While You Were Sleeping
While You Were Sleeping (1995)7
 How to Make an American Quilt
How to Make an American Quilt (1995)8
 I Love You to Death
I Love You to Death (1990)9

Sources

Influenced By

  1. Beauty and the Beast (1946)
    "Jean Cocteau's adaptation of the classic fairy tale inspired the film's themes of transformation and the idea of love transcending physical appearances. Nicolas Cage modeled his performance on Jean Marais's portrayal of the Beast." Moonstruck (Norman Jewison, 1987) Make Mine Criterion!
  2. Peggy Sue Got Married (1986)
    "Nicolas Cage's performance in this film led Cher and director Norman Jewison to cast him in "Moonstruck," recognizing his ability to portray complex, romantic characters." Moonstruck Sbiff
  3. La Dolce Vita (1960)
    "Federico Fellini's exploration of love and existentialism in Rome influenced "Moonstruck" in its portrayal of complex romantic relationships and the interplay between old-world traditions and modern desires." Why Moonstruck Made Marie-Helene Bertino Proud to Be Italian-American Literary Hub
  4. Metropolis (1927)
    "Fritz Lang's silent film influenced Nicolas Cage's performance, particularly during the "I lost my hand" speech, where he drew inspiration from Rudolf Klein-Rogge's portrayal of Rotwang." Afi source
  5. The Graduate (1967)
    "This film's exploration of unconventional romantic relationships and the questioning of societal norms resonated with "Moonstruck's" themes of love and personal transformation." Moonstruck Sbiff

Influenced

  1. Dan in Real Life (2007)
    "This film mirrors "Moonstruck" in its exploration of complex family relationships and unexpected romantic entanglements. The protagonist, Dan, finds himself in a romantic predicament that challenges familial bonds, reminiscent of the dynamics in "Moonstruck."" 28 Best Movies Like Moonstruck ... Bilbr
  2. While You Were Sleeping (1995)
    "Similar to "Moonstruck," this romantic comedy involves mistaken identities and unexpected love, set against a backdrop of family interactions. The film's blend of humor and heartfelt moments reflects the tone established by "Moonstruck."" 28 Best Movies Like Moonstruck ... Bilbr
  3. How to Make an American Quilt (1995)
    "This drama delves into the lives and loves of a group of women, echoing "Moonstruck's" themes of love, family, and personal growth. The narrative's focus on intergenerational relationships and personal discovery draws parallels to the storytelling style of "Moonstruck."" 28 Best Movies Like Moonstruck ... Bilbr
  4. I Love You to Death (1990)
    "This dark comedy shares thematic elements with "Moonstruck," particularly in its portrayal of passionate, sometimes tumultuous, romantic relationships within a family setting. The film's exploration of love and betrayal reflects the emotional depth found in "Moonstruck."" A Double and Dinner: Moonstruck (1987) & I Love You to Death (1990) Veronica Dolginko Back Row Cinema