Every once in a while, a film comes along that doesn’t just entertain; it touches something. Something tender. Something nostalgic. Nonnas is one of those films.

It’s not your typical food documentary, nor is it just another drama. It's a love letter to grief, to healing, to culture, and above all, to the fierce, loving matriarchs who hold so many families together through meals, memories, and stories.

If you're not sure what to watch next, here are five reasons why Nonnas deserves your time:

1. It’s Based on a True Story That’ll Stay With You

Joe Scaravella didn’t just open a restaurant; he built a tribute. After losing his mother, he created Enoteca Maria, a one-of-a-kind restaurant in New York where grandmothers from all over the world take turns running the kitchen. The film walks you through his journey, showing how a simple idea rooted in grief turned into something profoundly healing for him and his community.

2. The Nonna Power Is Real, and It’s Magical

This isn't a celebrity chef showcase; it’s real grandmothers from places like Italy, Nigeria, Syria, and the Dominican Republic. They're not just cooking; they’re storytelling through spices, sauces, and secret family techniques. Watching them is like sitting at your own grandmother’s kitchen table, only this one spans continents.

3. It’s a Global Celebration of Culture and Connection

Yes, there’s pasta. But there’s also jollof, kibbeh, arroz con pollo, and more. Each nonna brings her culture to life with every dish. And beyond the food, it’s about what we carry from our homes and how things such as recipes, rituals, and expressions of care connect us across generations.

4. Vince Vaughn Like You’ve Never Seen Him

Forget the fast-talking jokester. Vince Vaughn delivers something tender here: a man sitting with his pain and letting it lead him somewhere new. Backed by a cast of legends like Susan Sarandon and Talia Shire, the performances are soft, honest, and deeply human, never cheesy or overdone.

5. It Makes You Want to Call Your Grandma. Or Cook. Or Both.

At its heart, Nonnas is about what really matters—family, legacy, and the small rituals that anchor us. It's a warm reminder that love often looks like a steaming plate of something familiar, made with tired hands and a full heart.

Bonus: It’s Exactly the Kind of Film UPreviews Was Made For

If you're someone who chooses movies based on mood, meaning, or even how much content you’re comfortable with, UPreviews is your perfect companion. From watching the trailer to finding where Nonnas is streaming, it’s all there. And with our Viewer’s Guide, you can check for things like sexual content, violence, language, or alcohol use before you hit play. After watching, share your own thoughts too. Because movies like Nonnas aren't just stories; they're experiences.

You can catch a glimpse of the fun in Nonnas here: