From the Vine

For a person like me who typically doesn't watch films such as this, I was completely amazed at how much From The Vine affected me in a positive way.

I watched this film knowing only that it was related to wine and it was set in Italy. As I was watching, I quickly found out that its not only about wine and the beauty of Italy, its about finding your true self, the importance of family and that having money and success isn't the most important thing in life, leaving you to appreciate what you have and who you have around you.

Through the great storyline, the perfectly timed comedic elements, the beautiful cinematography, the wonderful direction and the amazing performances from Joe Pantoliano, Marco Leonardi, Paula Brancati, Wendy Crewson and so many other amazing actors in the film, From The Vine draws you in right away and takes you on a beautiful journey that will leave you smiling by the end credits.

A US executive (Joe Pantoliano) moves to Italy to reopen his grandfathers vineyard.

I liked Russell Crowe's "A Good Year" and thought this would be equally charming and engaging but this is really a poor imitation.

Weak plot, poorly executed and not even the beautiful Italian language and landscape can save this one.

I watched this film with my mom and we both really enjoyed, which is impressive in its own way since its hard for us to find a film we both love.

The narrative was relatable, cohesive and with just the right amount of romantic flair. Some of the shots in the film were so aesthetically beautiful, it made me wish I could be there in person. Wendy Crewson and Paula Brancati gave great performances as well, bringing a lot of depth to their characters and played well off one another in their shared scenes. Aside from the beautiful script and breathtaking cinematography, the film taught me things about Acerenza and the wine-making process that wouldn't of even crossed my mind (i.e the candle in the cellar). It's almost like a small documentary was tucked into the film, and I can appreciate when a film has so many layers to it.

The best part of the film for me was that it was so relatable. In today's world where our work lives have been disrupted by current events... It was nice to watch a film that told you "It's okay to start over. Work and money isn't all that life has to offer.".. which is a really beautiful kind of message that people, myself included, need right now. It's just such a feel good film.

From the Vine was a great experience for me, as an immigrant from South Western europe, the locales of the small Italian town reminded me of my childhood in an endearing way. The way that the townsfolk behave compared to the way Joe Pantoliano's character perceives his environment draws a great contrast and emphasizes on that distinction between the locals and the local who has become a stranger and returned back to their home a changed man.

On the more technical side, the film is admirable to say the least. The warm colour pallette evokes a true feeling of calmness and of pleasure in existence. The small Italian town that hosts most of the films scenes appears to be an oasis in the desert of modern living. Through color light and shadow, the cinematographer gives the town the ability to become one more character in the story.

I recommend the film to people of all ages and i would encourage families to watch it together with their loved ones. This story of dreams and of "reverse Immigration" is sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a curiousity to explore your family's lineage.

I just watched the most delightful movie I've seen in quite some time: 'From the Vine (2019)'. It's set mostly in Acerenza Italy, and is absolutely wonderful in every way! The cast is nearly 100% Italian for authenticity, and the scenery is just what you'd expect. Mostly though, this movie captures the essence of small town Italian personalities in a very entertaining manner, and a joy to behold!