The Rodriguez family is coming together for Christmas. Bodega owner Edy (Alfred Molina) and his wife Anna (Elizabeth Peña) are eager to see their three children back in their Chicago home.
Young Jesse (Freddy Rodríguez) is just returning from a tour of duty in Iraq and release from the Army. He's grappling with his guilt about the death of his best Army buddy in an attack upon both of them by the insurgents. He's also struggling with the fact that he still loves his former girlfried Marissa (Melonie Diaz) even though she is now happily married.
Son Mauricio (John Leguizamo) arrives with his Jewish wife Sarah (Debra Messing), a successful NYC career couple. Sarah feels the family pressure to get pregnant and Mauricio is eager to start a family.
Sister Roxanna (Vanessa Ferlito), an actress from LA, is trying to decide whether or not to continue acting. Her roles have been small and she can't seem to break through.
Mother Anna breaks the news to the family that she is leaving Edy because she is sure he has been having an affair. Meanwhile, Edy has his own secret that he's not ready to share with the family.
Also appearing are Luis Guzmán as Edy's nephew and Jay Hernandez as Jesse's best friend.
While this film is typically billed as a comedy, it is really a very tender drama about a loving family's dynamic. Rich in Puerto Rican culture and traditions. I'd like to see a sequel to this one as I came to care very much for these characters.
Directed by Alfredo De Villa.
Run time: 1 hour, 38 minutes
Rated PG-13 for thematic elements including some sexual dialogue, and brief drug references.
My personal rating: B
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