Once Around is a romantic comedy-drama film released in 1991, directed by Lasse Hallström. It stars Holly Hunter as Renata Bella, Richard Dreyfuss as Sam Sharpe, and Danny Aiello as Joe Bella, Renata's father.
Renata Bella is a hardworking woman who has not found success in her professional life nor her love life. She feels like a failure and has a strained relationship with her family, especially her father Joe Bella, who disapproves of her romantic choices.
One day, Renata attends a real estate seminar out of desperation and meets Sam Sharpe, a successful salesman who is much older than her. Despite their age difference, Renata is swept off her feet by Sam's flamboyant and charming personality. Sam, too, is deeply attracted to Renata and starts pursuing her relentlessly.
As they begin dating, Renata's family, especially her father, voice their concern over Sam's flashy personality and his previous failed marriages. Joe, in particular, is fiercely protective of his daughter and is skeptical of Sam's intentions. However, Renata is already too deeply in love with Sam to listen to her family's warnings.
As the relationship progresses, friction grows between Sam and Renata's family. Sam's flamboyance clashes with the Bella family's traditional values, and his extravagance leads to conflicts with Joe, who sees him as a shallow womanizer.
Renata feels trapped in the middle and must choose between the man she loves and her family's happiness. When Sam proposes to her, Renata accepts, causing further conflict with her father. In the end, the family must come to terms with their differences and learn to accept and support Renata's choices.
Once Around is a heartwarming film about family, love, and the challenges of navigating relationships. It received critical acclaim for its excellent writing, direction, and performances, especially by Holly Hunter and Richard Dreyfuss.
