Critic Reviews

Ireland says he was after the kind of "elegant simplicity" of the great Hollywood romantic dramas of the '50s, and, for the most part, this is exactly what he pulls off.

It's a good small film for intelligent audiences who like to watch the movie camera explore other regions and other communities -- something all our movies should do more often.

A romantic drama, a rare kind of film these days, even though romantic dramas were once a dominant genre in America.

Passionada assembles the elements for a soap opera, and turns them into a bubble bath.

Director Dan Ireland and the Jermanoks strive for and achieve a light romantic comedy with humorous, fanciful plotting yet shaded by genuine tenderness and passion.

A lovely, albeit imperfect fable marked by strong performances and infused with glorious bursts of soulful fado folk music.

Its compelling cast and sincere matchmaking goals are reason enough to play along.

The biggest appeal of Passionada is Sofia Milos, a sexy actress who commands the screen in every scene she's in.

While the situations don't add up to a satisfying film, the characters are pleasing to watch.

There's much to admire here, including an often witty script and a cast that includes Theresa Russell, Seymour Cassel, and the irrepressible Lupe Ontiveros (Celia's mother-in-law).