Big Night

Big night

Big Night is a 1996 American comedy-drama film co-directed by Campbell Scott and Stanley Tucci. The film stars Stanley Tucci, Tony Shalhoub, Minnie Driver, Ian Holm, Isabella Rossellini, and Allison Janney. The screenplay was written by Stanley Tucci and Joseph Tropiano.

Plot

The story is set in the 1950s and revolves around two Italian immigrant brothers, Primo (played by Tony Shalhoub) and Secondo (played by Stanley Tucci), who run a restaurant called "Paradise" on the New Jersey shore. Primo is a brilliant, perfectionist chef who is passionate about authentic Italian cuisine, while Secondo is the restaurant manager who is more concerned with the business side of things.

The restaurant is struggling financially, and Secondo is desperate to find a way to save it. He arranges for a famous Italian-American singer, Louis Prima, to dine at their restaurant, hoping that his visit will bring in more customers and save the business. The brothers prepare an elaborate feast, which they call the "Big Night," in anticipation of Prima's visit.

Cast

• Stanley Tucci as Secondo
• Tony Shalhoub as Primo
• Minnie Driver as Phyllis
• Ian Holm as Pascal
• Isabella Rossellini as Gabriella
• Allison Janney as Ann

Production

The film was shot on location in New Jersey and New York. The directors, Campbell Scott and Stanley Tucci, aimed to create an authentic atmosphere that reflected the time period and the cultural background of the characters. The film's attention to detail, particularly in the depiction of the food and the cooking process, has been widely praised.

Reception

Big Night received critical acclaim for its screenplay, direction, and performances, particularly those of Stanley Tucci and Tony Shalhoub. The film has been noted for its heartfelt portrayal of family, tradition, and the immigrant experience. It has since become a cult classic, especially among food enthusiasts.

Legacy

Big Night has had a lasting impact on both the film and culinary worlds. It is often cited in discussions about food in cinema and has inspired many chefs and food lovers. The film's climactic feast scene is particularly famous and has been referenced in various media.

Related Pages

• Stanley Tucci
• Tony Shalhoub
• Campbell Scott
• Minnie Driver
• Ian Holm
• Isabella Rossellini
• Allison Janney
• Louis Prima