Moonstruck Revisited: A Passionate Love Story Defies Expectations

The 1987 romantic comedy 'Moonstruck' explores the complexities of love and family through the lens of an Italian-American clan in Brooklyn.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

In 'Moonstruck,' Loretta Castorini, a widow with a recent fiancé, finds herself unexpectedly drawn to her soon-to-be brother-in-law, Ronny Cammareri, an intense and passionate baker. As the two navigate their forbidden romance, the film delves into the joys and chaos of love, family, and the unpredictable nature of the heart.

Why it matters

The film 'Moonstruck' has become a beloved classic, celebrated for its nuanced portrayal of love and family dynamics within the Italian-American community. The story's enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the universal truths about the complexities of relationships, the power of passion, and the importance of embracing life's messiness.

The details

Loretta Castorini, a widow living with her eccentric Italian-American family in Brooklyn, is engaged to the bland and mama's boy Johnny Cammareri. When Johnny leaves for Italy to visit his ailing mother, Loretta goes to invite his estranged brother, Ronny, to the wedding. Ronny, a passionate and intense baker who lost his hand in a bread-slicing incident, and Loretta quickly develop an undeniable connection, leading to a passionate love affair despite the complications of their familial ties.

  • Seven years ago, Loretta's husband was struck by a bus and pronounced dead on the scene.
  • Five years ago, Ronny Cammareri lost his hand in a bread-slicing incident, which he blames on his brother Johnny.
  • Loretta's fiancé, Johnny Cammareri, flies out to Italy to visit his ailing mother.

The players

Loretta Castorini

The film's protagonist, a widow living with her Italian-American family in Brooklyn who is engaged to Johnny Cammareri.

Ronny Cammareri

Loretta's soon-to-be brother-in-law, an intense and passionate baker who lost his hand in a bread-slicing incident.

Johnny Cammareri

Loretta's fiancé, a mama's boy who is Ronny's brother.

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What they’re saying

“Love don't make things nice; it ruins everything, it breaks your heart. It makes things a mess, we aren't here to make things perfect.”

— Ronny Cammareri (Moonstruck)

The takeaway

The enduring appeal of 'Moonstruck' lies in its ability to capture the complexities of love and family, showcasing how passion and chaos can coexist, and how embracing the messiness of life can lead to profound connections and personal growth.