Moonstruck

 Even though Cher won an award for her performance in this film, I still find it highly underrated. The script is magnificent (when not performed by Nicolas Cage, who managed to smell to high heaven in this instance), and the setting and tone are undeniably and magnetically authentic.

Directed by Norman Jewison, who also directed Fiddler on the Roof (not to mention such other favorites as The Thomas Crown Affair and The Russians are Coming, The Russians are Coming), this film captures the soul of romance without turning it too hollywood-brass. Although thematically this film seems to advocate a "live in the moment" kind of carelessness and a "love conquers all" hype, a sense of permanence, of long-term sacrifice and sincerity temper that sentiment into something truly touching. It's played in a way that might almost convince a realist to believe in love.

I would beg of any who pick up this film to try it. See past poor Mr. Cage into the genius that is Moonstruck. There are moments of great humor, touching moments of poetry, and moments of real joy throughout. It is a tender film with underpinnings of realism. A true work of art.