Reel Corner - June 2025

June 2025 Issue
Reel Corner by Donne Paine

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Don't miss these new favorites on Netflix!

Four Seasons (1981) (2025)
Love and Friendship over the years.


In 1981, Alan Alda and Carol Burnett brought to life a poignant exploration of love and friendship in Four Seasons, a film that resonated deeply with audiences through its character-driven tale about three couples navigating the complexities of their relationships over the course of a year. Fast forward to 2025, when Tina Fey takes the helm as producer of a modern remake, also titled Four Seasons, now available on Netflix. With a fresh cast, including Tina Fey, Will Forte and Steve Carell, this updated version retains the essence of the original, while introducing contemporary themes relevant to today’s audience.



The premise remains familiar: Three suburban middle-aged couples embark on seasonal vacations together, a tradition they have followed for years. Their bonds are tested when one couple divorces. The introduction of a younger woman into the mix, brought along by the newly single husband, serves as a catalyst for deeper introspection among the group. As tensions rise, the characters are forced to confront not just the changing dynamics of their friendships, but also their own understanding of love and commitment.



One notable update in the 2025 version is the inclusion of a gay couple, which adds a layer of diversity and relevance to the story. This modern twist enriches the exploration of relationships, showcasing the universal challenges that come with love, regardless of orientation. The film navigates the intricacies of middle-aged friendships, illustrating how a significant change within the group can lead to profound self-reflection and reevaluation of personal truths.



For those who may not have seen the original Four Seasons, this 2025 remake stands alone as a thought-provoking examination of love and friendship in the face of change. However, for those familiar with the earlier film, watching both versions offers a rich comparison of how societal norms and relationship dynamics have evolved over the decades.



Tina Fey’s Four Seasons is a worthy homage to its predecessor, delivering a tale that resonates with audiences navigating the complexities of adult relationships. Whether you are a fan of the original or new to the story, this remake is a compelling watch that captures the essence of human connection in all its messy, beautiful forms.

And lest we forget the cameo and homage of Alan Alda as father to Tina’s character.

Four Seasons 2025 can be streamed on Netflix in an eight-episode format.

 

Nonnas
Love, Loss and the Power of Food
Cast: Vince Vaughn, Susan Sarandon, Lorraine Bracco, Talia Shire, and Brenda Vaccaro | Director: Stephen Chbosky

Nonnas is a heartwarming drama based on a true story about a small, family style restaurant on Staten Island. After the loss of his mother, Joe (Vaughn) risks everything to honor her by opening an Italian restaurant with a group of local Italian grandmothers (nonnas) as chefs.

The film is a delightful exploration of family, friendship, and the comfort found in food. Set against the backdrop of a bustling kitchen, this film captures the essence of Italian culture and the importance of community. The unique premise of hiring Italian grandmas (nonnas) as chefs not only highlights the rich heritage of Italian cuisine, but also showcases the invaluable contributions of these women who embody the spirit of family closeness and tradition.

What makes Nonnas truly special is its ability to resonate with audiences, regardless of their cultural background. This film speaks to the universal themes of comfort food and the memories associated with it.

Nonnas can be streamed on Netflix.


Sources: www.imdb.com, www.wikipedia.com

Donne Paine, film enthusiast, once lived around the corner from the Orson Wells Theater in Cambridge, Massachu-setts, where her strong interest in films, especially independent ones, began. Supporter of the arts, especially films, she has traveled to local and national film festivals including Sundance, Toronto and Tribeca. There is nothing like seeing a film on the big screen. She encourages film goers to support Hilton Head local theaters, Park Plaza Theater and Northridge. To support her habit of frequent movie going, Donne is a vaccine medicine nurse consultant and also the author of 4 Interview Pillars available on Amazon. See you at the movies!