Review:

film: "Mambo Italiano" by Émile Gaudreault (Canada 2003)

by John Frame 16^th October 2003 (for Queer Radio and for QP Magazine).

www.mamboitalianomovie.com Gay themed Canadian romantic comedy Mambo Italiano opened 23^rd October in cinemas across Brisbane – and within a month of its USA release. It’s a very refreshing look at emerging gay identity in the context of suburban conservatism, set and filmed in the “Little Italy” area of Montreal. Main character Angelo (Luke Kirby) is a young first generation Canadian with an extended family whose values are still firmly locked in the 1960’s. All good comedy needs drama, and this Italian family provides a wealth of drama. The film opens with Angelo phoning a Gayline counseling service for the very first time – giving us the chance to hear why he’s suddenly aware that he really is gay. If only his parents were to be as understanding as the counselor – but then we wouldn’t have the movie. The story is as much about Angelo’s family as it is about Angelo – but his gayness is an essential plot element, which involves people and incidents that will ring true everywhere. It’s certainly not a rehashed version of any other gay film – Mambo Italiano maintains a rollicking pace, with maximum entertainment, while deftly dodging likely clichés. A very canny script guides you to feeling empathy and passion for all the main characters and also suddenly gives voice to some lines that make you want to stand up and cheer. The only actor we’re likely to recognise is USA (Italian) Paul Sorvino (as Angelo’s dad), who joins a stellar Canadian cast in bringing this film to life. Luke Kirby deserves star billing – but what makes Mambo Italiano so enjoyable is that every single aspect of the film is utterly professional – including casting, camera work, direction, editing and sound. Most members of the crew are associates of director/co-writer Émile Gaudreault, as is Steve Gallucio, who developed scripts for the successful play and the film simultaneously. Mambo Italiano could not be limited in definition as merely a “gay film” because it welcomes everyone, and should delight all parents, family and friends of lesbians and gays – (and isn’t that everyone?) It is amusing, involving, passionate and 100% entertaining.