“Do you love him, Loretta?” “Aw, ma, I love him awful.” “Oh God, that’s too bad.”
Moonstruck, the 1987 comedy starring Cher and Nicolas Cage, not only celebrates that crazy little thing called love, but also pays tribute to the Italian working class residents of the old “South Brooklyn” neighborhoods of Brooklyn Heights, Cobble Hill and Carroll Gardens.
Listen in as Greg and Tom recap the story and explore the many real New York City settings of the film — from the glamorous Lincoln Center to the still-gritty streets of 1980s Little Italy.
While the film’s most recognizable location (the mansion on Cranberry Street) is still with us, other places like the Cammareri Bros. Bakery are no longer with in business.
Should you watch the movie before you listen to this episode? This podcast can be enjoyed both by those who have seen the film and those who’ve never even heard of it.
We think our take on Moonstruck might inspire you to look for the film’s many fascinating (but easy to overlook) historical details, so if you don’t mind being spoiled on the plot, give it a listen first, then watch the movie! Otherwise, come back to the show after you’ve watched it.
To listen to our episode Moonstruck: That’s Amore, just look for our podcast on your favorite podcast player.
Because we could all use a little love and Cher, we’ve decided to release this episode of the Bowery Boys Movie Club (an exclusive to those who support us on Patreon) to the general listening audience.
But there are many more episodes of the Movie Club (and a new one to come next week). To get all the episodes, just visit our page on Patreon and consider being a sponsor.
We greatly appreciate our listeners and readers and thank you for joining us on this journey so far.
3 replies on “Moonstruck: That’s Amore! Love and family in 1980s New York City”
Hello from Manchester in the UK!
I’ve listened so to many of your fantastic podcasts over the past year and can say that I’ve enjoyed every single one of them. So thankyou for getting me through the rigours of lockdowns, home schooling and lack of holidays!
I’ve just listened to your Fire Island episode and was extremely impressed by Parker’s eloquence and articulacy. Please pass on my compliments!
Keep up the great work lads and maybe one day I’ll see you in New York City!
Kind Regards,
Moira
I’m going to be that guy and point out that, um, actually, the production of La Boheme depicted in the movie isn’t the Met’s production (Toronto Opera is credited at the end). All the same, now you have a reason to go back to the Met and see Zeffirelli’s amazing production, still in repertory since 1981. And thanks for giving me a reason to re-watch Moonstruck after 35 years!
By all means, please be that guy! I will check it out.