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Alyssa Milano
in "Wisegal"
courtesy of Lifetime
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"Wisegal" (Lifetime)
Alyssa Milano of "Who's the Boss?" "Melrose Place" and "Charmed" fame finally finds a role that showcases her acting talent in the Lifetime movie "Wisegal." This film, which is based on a true story, allows Milano to show a range that has heretofore been denied her. As Patty Montanari she shows her romantic side as well as a maternal one and a dramatic one. Jason Gedrick and James Caan are her co-stars in the film and they interact well with her. This isn't a movie of the caliber of "The Godfather" but it is the best thing Alyssa has done to date.
The movie shows that Patty Montanari had bad luck from an early age. She and her mother were basically homeless until she met and fell in love with a cop. He took good care of her until he fell ill. After a two year fight with cancer he died leaving her with two kids and a lot of debt.
She then met Frank Russo (Gedrick), a member of the mob who set her up with a nightclub to run. He also introduced her to Sal Palmeri (Caan). Palmeri got her even further involved with the mob. She went into all these ventures knowing what she was doing but motivated by her desire to provide for her family.
What Patty learned is that the mob is a "Family" but it is a family that does not want to let you go. Once you are in, you are in for life. Patty doesn't want this life and tries to devise a way to escape. She wants her two boys to be able to follow their own path and not one set out for them by the mob.
The plot of this movie is engrossing and Milano's talent and beauty make her an attractive centerpiece. Gedrick is perfect for the role of Frank. He projects the charm and the ruthlessness necessary to delineate this character. Caan is still playing Sonny Corleone of "The Godfather" to some extent. There is nothing new on view in his portrayal.
For a look at the Mob from a female perspective tune in to "Wisegal." It premieres March 15 at 9PM on Lifetime. |
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©2008 Jackie K. Cooper |
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