Meaning: The quote "And even Moonstruck - for some reason the audience were just in the mood for a very romantic film, because it's one of the few romantic comedies to be nominated for a Best Picture Oscar." by Norman Jewison, the director, refers to the film "Moonstruck" and its unexpected success as a romantic comedy. This quote speaks to the uniqueness of "Moonstruck" in the context of the romantic comedy genre and its recognition by the Academy Awards.

"Moonstruck" is a 1987 romantic comedy film directed by Norman Jewison and written by John Patrick Shanley. The film stars Cher, Nicolas Cage, Olympia Dukakis, and Danny Aiello. Set in New York City, the story revolves around a young Italian-American widow, Loretta Castorini (played by Cher), who finds herself in a romantic entanglement with her fiancé's estranged brother, Ronny Cammareri (played by Nicolas Cage). The film explores themes of love, family, and the complexities of romantic relationships.

The quote highlights the surprising success of "Moonstruck" as a romantic comedy. In the realm of film, romantic comedies are often seen as entertaining but not typically recognized as contenders for prestigious awards such as the Best Picture Oscar. However, "Moonstruck" defied these expectations by receiving critical acclaim and multiple Academy Award nominations, including a nomination for Best Picture.

The film's appeal and success can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the performances of the cast were widely praised, particularly those of Cher and Olympia Dukakis, who won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Loretta's mother. Cher's portrayal of Loretta garnered her a nomination for Best Actress, and her on-screen chemistry with Nicolas Cage added depth and charm to the romantic storyline.

Additionally, the writing and direction of "Moonstruck" contributed to its acclaim. John Patrick Shanley's screenplay masterfully balanced humor and heartfelt moments, capturing the idiosyncrasies of family dynamics and love in a way that resonated with audiences. Norman Jewison's direction brought the story to life, creating a cinematic experience that felt both authentic and whimsical.

The film's setting also played a significant role in its appeal. The vibrant backdrop of New York City's Little Italy, coupled with the rich cultural traditions and familial connections portrayed in the film, added a layer of authenticity and warmth to the romantic narrative. This combination of setting, storytelling, and performances created a film that was both relatable and enchanting for audiences.

Furthermore, "Moonstruck" stood out for its ability to balance romantic elements with comedic moments, a feat that is often challenging to achieve in the genre. The film's humor was rooted in the characters' interactions and the witty dialogue, providing levity amidst the emotional complexities of the relationships depicted on screen.

In the broader context of cinematic history, "Moonstruck" holds a special place as one of the few romantic comedies to receive recognition at the highest level of the film industry. Its Best Picture nomination signaled a shift in the perception of romantic comedies, demonstrating that the genre could transcend its lighthearted reputation and be celebrated for its storytelling and performances.

In conclusion, Norman Jewison's quote reflects the unexpected but well-deserved success of "Moonstruck" as a romantic comedy. The film's ability to captivate audiences with its endearing characters, engaging storyline, and genuine portrayal of love and family dynamics set it apart as a standout in the genre. Its impact on the perception of romantic comedies in the realm of prestigious awards showcases the enduring appeal and artistry of this beloved film.