Moonstruck: Critic Reviews

The title refers to one relative's theory that the full moon can make people wildly romantic, make them behave in wonderful, unpredictably crazy ways. Not crazy enough.

They're an irresistibly offbeat couple -- Cage playing on the edge, where he likes it; Cher creating a fairy-tale realist, captivating yet cautious.

Reviews of the movie tend to make it sound like a madcap ethnic comedy, and that it is. But there is something more here, a certain bittersweet yearning that comes across as ineffably romantic, and a certain magical quality.

Most of the show belongs to Cher and Cage, both of whom are at their energetic best.

Norman Jewison's film is a mostly appetizing blend of comedy and drama carried by snappy dialog and a wonderful ensemble full of familiar faces.

John Patrick Shanley's witty, shapely script puts an octet of New Yorkers under a lunar-tuney spell one romantic night. Cher shines brightest of all.

Wears its off-balance as a badge of pride. [Blu-ray]

A superior romantic comedy, with more than a touch of grace and warmth, and without resorting to the usual stupid romantic comedy cliches.

'80s romcom has mature themes; may not interest kids.

A wholesome, filling glimpse at what happens when people rediscover their appetite for love.

A shamelessly exuberant affair in which love touches the young, the hurt and the middle-aged.

Cher and Cage are very fine in this romantic comedy directed by Norman Jewison.

A rich and witty romantic comedy with a perfecto monologue from Nicolas Cage.

Stronger on mores than amore, a half smile for a summer night.

...generally unable to live up to its reputation as a classic romantic comedy.

A warm and funny little ensemble piece that still holds up pretty darn well after almost 20 years.

spends so much time reminding us what a quaint and cute little movie we're watching that our interest isn't required