Somewhere in Queens - A Movie Review

Just keep going - time heals everything.

Somewhere in Queens is a 2022 film. When his son is allowed to try out for college basketball championships, Leo Russo wants him to succeed. Surrounded by their overbearing Italian family in Queens, Leo takes things to extremes, tearing his family apart.

I was starting to think that movies with flawed protagonists who fulfill a sincere message were over until I watched Somewhere in Queens. This is yet another underrated movie that deserves more recognition. This is a story about forgiveness and finding solutions to overcome communication barriers.

Somewhere in Queens had a terrific cast of actors. Led by Ray Romano, he plays Leo, a loving father and husband who wants what’s best for his son. Only, he shoots the basketball in the wrong hoop. His behavior is foolish and selfish, which makes Leo an intricate character.

Romano did great in his portrayal, playing well with the character’s emotions. I like how Leo always references Rocky. This is the character depth we need more of.

Alongside Ramono is Laurie Metcalf as Leo’s wife, Angela. Romano and Metcalf built a strong dynamic, lightly bickering and sharing tender moments. Metcalf is another splendid actress who deserves more recognition for her performances. She delivers an emotional monologue, lamenting about her fears of not being a good mother.

Sadie Stanley was so natural and lively in her performance. She also guided her character well. Dani has a lot to say about certain topics and always stands her ground. Caught in a dilemma, Dani is guilted into committing with Matthew. I hope Stanley is recognized for her performance and gets more roles in the future.

In Jacob Ward’s feature film debut, his transition as Matthew (or Sticks as his parents nickname him) is powerful. He feels like a shadow and is still trying to understand his pathway. As Matthew does, we will find our passions.

Somewhere in Queens includes a signature dinner sequence between the Russo family. Some of Romano’s real-life family play characters. Relationships, conversations, and the mood were conducted well in this scene.

Along with acting, Ray Romano also had the directing reigns for Somewhere in Queens. Though daunted by the task, he did great in his directorial debut, conducting the story, relationships, and message well. Scenes are quick but convey the message. It’s a simple story, but there’s so much more to it than that.

As a fellow New Yorker, Romano breathed life into the story. Somewhere in Queens is a love letter to his hometown. He shot most scenes in various neighborhoods in Queens. The film drew on most of his experiences and shared pieces of his life.

The moral of Somewhere in Queens is so important. Relationships and communication are the most important themes. Just because you don’t share interests that doesn’t mean you should ignore it. In Leo’s decision-making, he makes a decision that fuels everyone’s anger.

Connecting is how we relate to each other to make relationships work and keep communication in sync. Sometimes we get lost in our desires. We can learn from mistakes like these and be better. You can’t let your worrying stop you from living.

This film is honest and has several poignant moments. It showcases genuine love. We see a bit of ourselves in this film. I like how this film was not afraid to show the selfish side of humans. We’re all flawed, which adds depth.

Somewhere in Queens is a movie we have not had in a while, so I recommend you check it out. It is worth your time.