Turkey's Done

Turkey’s Done is an engaging and laughter-filled short film from the year 2019. Directed by Monique Impagliazzo and Jennifer Tini, the film stars the talented comedian and actress, Cheri Oteri, who is popularly recognized for her incredible work on Saturday Night Live. This film is a comedic and lighthearted take on the traditions and tribulations that come during family gatherings, specifically one set on the occasion of Thanksgiving. The portrayal is colorful, culturally insightful, and brimming with relatable humor and festive charm.

Cheri Oteri plays the character of Peaches Bracco, a vivacious South Philly housewife who finds herself in the throes of the Thanksgiving hustle and bustle. As part of the Bracco family, she is tasked with the timeless tradition of cooking the family turkey. But this year's preparation is just as uncommon as Peaches herself. This special Thanksgiving turkey has had a custom-made Italian flag tattooed on its wing.

On the other side of the narrative, we have the men of the Bracco family, including Peaches' husband, played by veteran actor Al Sapienza, best known for his potent performances in hit show Suits and the iconic series, The Sopranos. The men are unaware of Peach’s delectable secret and bet on when the turkey will be cooked and ready to serve, a family tradition known as 'The Turkey Game'. This game encapsulates the family’s impatience and anticipation of the turkey's readiness, their guesses fluctuating wildly depending on the day's unfolding events or the football game results.

As Peaches navigates the chaos and overwhelming drama of a typical family Thanksgiving, top it with cooking the turkey with an Italian tattoo, the film delves into hilarious situations, classic family politics, and unexpected events that unfold amidst shameless banter and loud arguments. Establishing a compelling comedic setting, the film showcases the perfect brew of Italian-American humor, family dynamics, and the quintessential pressure of hosting Thanksgiving.

The cast also includes the charismatic presence of Vic Dibitetto. Known for his unforgettable stand-up performances, he adds a unique comedic flavor to the ensemble, delivering laughter-packed snippets with his exceptional timing and perfect delivery. His on-screen energy and interactions amplify the raucous charm of the family's Thanksgiving traditions.

The film is beautifully complimented by director Monique Impagliazzo's sharp storytelling skills combined with Jennifer Tini's knack for incorporating a flavor of fun eccentricities of familial etiquettes. The film celebrates the infectious spirit and the cultural comedic textures of South Philadelphia and its community. The family’s infectious camaraderie and the quick-witted humor make the film not just a comedic escapade but also a heartwarming testament to the endurance e involved in orchestrating a successful family gathering.

Turkey’s Done boasts a vivid color palette that exudes a warm, holiday-inspired tone, lending the perfect setting for presenting an eccentric Thanksgiving festivity. It's an impressive mix of humor, drama, and tradition, which altogether make the film a thoroughly enjoyable watch.

From the onset, the audience is welcomed into the heart of the Bracco household, witnessing drama, love, laughter, and genuine moments that embody a classic family holiday gathering. The production design vividly brings to life the hustle and chaos of the tradition-infused preparations in the family home.

Turkey’s Done is an earnest and comedic representation of one family’s Thanksgiving tradition. The dynamic mix of a talented star-studded cast, exceptional direction, and well-incorporated elements of tradition and humor make for a delightful viewing experience. The film provides a delightful holiday watch that leaves a smile on the audience’s face while more often than not, inducing hearty laughs along the way. It is a comedic, tradition-steeped portrayal of a relatable family scenario that rings true with families universally, making it the perfect festive film that holds a mirror to the joys, checkboxes, and chaos of hosting a family dinner.