Household Saints (1993)

Synopsis: Director Nancy Savoca's (TRUE LOVE, DOGFIGHT) third film traces the lives of three generations of Italian-American women. In post-World War II New York, Joseph Santangelo (Vincent D'Onofrio) wins... Director Nancy Savoca's (TRUE LOVE, DOGFIGHT) third film traces the lives of three generations of Italian-American women. In post-World War II New York, Joseph Santangelo (Vincent D'Onofrio) wins Catherine Falconetti (Tracey Ullman) when her father, Lino (Victor Argo), bets her in a pinochle game. To Lino's surprise, Santangelo takes the bet seriously. Santangelo's hyperreligious and superstitious mother, Carmela (Judith Malina)--who makes the best sausages around--disapproves of mousy Catherine and is appalled by her cooking. Nevertheless, Catherine and Joseph marry and eventually are blessed with a daughter, Teresa. Even as a child Teresa is a religious zealot, praying for the good of the world and for miracles. As a teenager, Teresa's (Lili Taylor) devotion borders on fanaticism as she seeks to find the pure and the good in the monotony of performing everyday chores in the tradition of her patron saint. Teresa's boyfriend (Michael Imperioli) and her parents grow increasingly alarmed by her obsessive behavior and aspirations of sainthood. Based on Francine Prose's novel of the same name, Savoca's film is an intelligent look at family, religion, and food in Italian-American culture. [More]

Starring: Tracey Ullman, Vincent D'Onofrio, Lili Taylor, Judith Malina

Starring: Tracey Ullman, Vincent D'Onofrio, Lili Taylor, Judith Malina

Director: Nancy Savoca

Director: Nancy Savoca

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