Actors make movie a very pleasant ride

By BETH PERDUE, Standard-Times correspondent

Photos by PETER PEREIRA, Standard-Times staff photographer
 

A feel-good movie from top to toe, "Passionada" creates an atmosphere of new beginnings and the possibility of love when one no longer dares to hope for it.  It is a straightforward romantic story that never veers far from the developing
 relationship between Celia Amonte and Charlie Beck, the 30-something New Bedford widow originally from the Azores and the British gambler who woos her. Yet despite its clear-cut course, the film also celebrates much of the best of local Portuguese culture, its emphasis on strong family ties, loyalty and respect, as well as its music, cuisine and language.
     The acting is superb. Sofia Milos and Jason Isaacs do an excellent job of portraying individuals who have lived, loved and lost before, and now have a second chance if they choose to take it. Both are forced to rethink their natural instincts and step outside their typical routine if their love is to succeed. He struggles to overcome his need to be anyone other than his true self. She wrestles with the belief that falling in love again is a betrayal of her dead husband.
Throughout the film's 108 minutes, New Bedford shines, something that is truly delightful to see on a big screen. It's not just the ocean views and glowing fishing port scenes, but the sense of a strong community that is united and values family and tradition.
      Those familiar with Portuguese culture will find many satisfying moments to enjoy, such as Jason Isaacs' fumbling with the language, the many enticing displays of Portuguese cuisine and the beautiful portrayal of fado music. Combining a hometown feel with a touch of the exotic, the feast scene is a particular treat to watch, with many local folks showing off their dance moves.
    The one drawback is that New Bedford is seen in such a rosy light, that many viewers will be hyper-aware of the reality of the struggles that filmmakers omitted.
In fairness, the story does make an effort to be realistic, with a few references to the dangers faced by fishermen (the main character is a fisherman's widow, after all) and at least one mention of the strangling impact of regulations on the fishing industry. But these feel a little thin.
     Already referred to as a "chick flick," the feminine pull of the film is dual. Celia Amonte is an impressive female character, a mother who is both strong-willed and passionate. Viewers will feel for her as she resists and mistrusts the unknown man entering her life, just as much as they will cheer her on and enjoy every moment of her eventual surrender to new love.
     Equally satisfying is the portrayal of three generations of forceful Portuguese women who are determined to create their own lives. Lupe Ontiveros, as Celia's tough yet loving mother-in-law, and Emmy Rossum, as her rebellious teenage daughter Vicky, sparkle on screen. These are three decisive and unpredictable women who are tossing aside the yoke of old-world traditions, yet keeping the best of what they have learned, and they are a delight to watch.
Ms. Ontiveros is particularly impressive as the family matriarch, frequently in the background of the story but stepping forward as needed to exercise her will and drop dabs of wisdom she has gleaned from her own experience of widowhood.
     Despite the film's many delightful moments, its storyline doesn't delve too deeply into the complexities of the characters. Even Mr. Isaacs' role as gambler sometimes seems more of a useful tool to move the plot forward than central to the action. There are moments when viewers might be left wanting something a little more solid to bite into, less Portuguese sweet bread and more heartier fare such as paella and shrimp Mozambique, all dishes shown to perfection in the film. But the sweets are tasty. The actors give enjoyable performances and it is satisfying to let go and enjoy the ride.
          Ultimately, the movie seems to celebrate many of the everyday realities of New Bedford life that those living here might take for granted. If you think fairy-tale love can't happen to you on the streets of New Bedford, the movie seems to say, think again: It might be just around the next corner.

(This story appeared on Page A7 of The Standard-Times on August 5, 2003)

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