Stanley Tucci and Tony Shaloub are terrific as two brothers with conflicting opinions on how to run a restaurant. The more business-minded Tucci wants to give the customers what they want to ensure a profit, while the artist Shaloub refuses to compromise the integrity of the dish, even if it means financial failure. When a competing -- but envious --restauranteur promises to send a famous client their way, the boys prepare for the "big night" that could make or break their restaurant. That's the set-up; the rest of the film is execution -- and how wonderfully exexuted it is. Some have complained about failure to develop certain plots (Tucci's love interest, for instance) and that's a fair enough gripe; but it's Tucci and Shaloub's show -- and the food's. You'll be surprised how much drama and excitement director Tucci can get out of the preparation for a a dinner party -- and when you watch Shaloub prepare a gigantic main dish, you'll hold your breath in expectation as he pulls it out of the oven to see if the dish is a success. Finally, the film is about the bond between two brothers, who make each other crazy, have different views on life and business, but ultimately know they have each other for love and support, and that each really does appreciate the gifts of the other. The final shot (which I won't give away) is emotional, bittersweet, quietly dignified, and wholly satisfying.

Wine on the Table

1st Course
Antipasti Platter

2nd Course
Chicken Brodo with Penne, Carrots and Parsley

3rd Course
Three Risotto's
(Colors of Italian flag)
Pesto-Tomato-Cheese

4th course
Timpano "Pasta Drum from Southern Italy"

5th Course
Salmon with Salsa Verde

6th Course
Whole Roast Pig with Mashed Potatoes

7th Course
Tiramisu