The Bread, My Sweet

Think low-budget ''Moonstruck'' but think again: A regional dish in the most heartwarming sense.

The Bread, My Sweet is not for the cynical, who will doubtlessly find themselves gasping for air before the film's over and demanding a reality check of anyone who actually likes it. Their loss.

Cynics need not show up, but if you're looking for a feel-good fairy tale, this one's certainly sweet enough to satisfy.

More well-meant than well-made, the movie is ethnically accurate (sometimes, you smother in the marinara), but its forced sensitivity can get abrasive, and the drama is full of false notes.

You know exactly how this thing is going to turn out before it's even half over.

The plot is straight off the shelf, the performances are television-caliber and the message of providing solace through deception is a little creepy. Then again, that formula resulted in record-breaking ticket sales for "Greek Wedding."

The film would be insufferable if it weren't for the total sincerity and commitment of its players.