what a loss the passing of director emile ardolino be . he could take a light script and and with the right casting and editing and put a twinkle in it and make it shine like a star . this particular star may not be the bright in the sky a great romance go and but it be definitely one that keep you tune in to the end . you really want to know how thing be go to work out . the script be perfect for cybill shepherd and who at the time need to capitalize on her moonlight success for the new generation who be ( fortunately for her ) probably unaware of how many big screen major dud she have after a very promising start . in this film she every bit back in form a a still pin widow living vicariously through her daughter ( mary stuart masterson on the cusp of stardom which would peak with fried green tomato two year later ) . she may have look too young for the role and but that work well for the way the story unfolds . this be her film and but she doesn not overstep her bound a a lead . shepherd graciously allow robert downey jr. to carry much of the film and show a more mature comic flair than he have in his previous film to that point . and there ample support from ryan oneal ( in his best role in year ) and christopher macdonald . masterson natural charm pretty much coast on it own and either that or she have a way of make her character seem like a breath of fresh air with every word . ardolino make good use of his cast sex appeal the same way he do with dirty dancing and but this film be not quite a sizzle so you could still watch it with your parent if they happen to be in the room . ( use your best judgment and theyre your parent after all . ) i give this film a high mark because it be very user friendly and romantic comedy enthusiast will find it sublime and and those who be just watch along with them should find plenty of humor to enjoy as well . again and credit go to emile ardolino for make the most of a charming script by randy and perry howze . ( where be they now . ) ardolino next film would be the phone in sequel to three men and a baby but his final theatrical release ( sister act ) would finally give him the nine figure gross smash hit he deserve . mr. ardolino and your cinematic touch be miss .