Big Stone Gap

Big Stone Gap is a 2014 romantic comedy-drama film directed by Adriana Trigiani and based on the novel of the same name by Trigiani. The film is set in 1978 in the small town of Big Stone Gap, Virginia, and tells the story of Ave Maria Mulligan (Ashley Judd), a self-proclaimed old maid who runs the town's pharmacy and is known for her eccentric style and her passion for reading.

As the film opens, Ave Maria is preparing for the town's annual coal festival, a celebration of the town's mining heritage that brings in tourists from all over. Ave Maria is also grappling with the recent death of her mother, who left behind a box of letters that reveal a shocking family secret. Meanwhile, Ave Maria's long-time best friend, Theodore Tipton (Whoopi Goldberg), is pushing her to find a husband and start a family, but Ave Maria is content with her life as it is.

Things start to change when Jack MacChesney (Patrick Wilson), a charming and handsome coal miner, returns to town after a long absence. Jack is instantly attracted to Ave Maria, but she is wary of getting involved with him due to his reputation as a ladies' man. Despite her reservations, Ave Maria finds herself falling for Jack, and they embark on a sweet and tender romance.

As Ave Maria navigates her newfound love life, she also has to deal with a number of other challenges. She is running for the position of town treasurer against a local businessman who is determined to beat her, and she is also facing pressure from her family to move to Italy and start a new life. Through it all, Ave Maria stays true to herself and learns some important lessons about life, love, and the true meaning of family.

One of the things that makes Big Stone Gap such an enjoyable film is its charming small-town setting. The film was shot on location in Virginia, and Trigiani does a great job of capturing the beauty and quirkiness of the town. From the colorful characters who populate the town to the stunning scenery, it's clear that Trigiani has a great affection for Big Stone Gap and its people, and that shines through in every scene.

Another strength of the film is its cast. Judd is perfectly cast as Ave Maria, bringing a warmth and vulnerability to the character that makes her instantly likable. Wilson is also great as Jack, playing him as both suave and sincere. And Goldberg provides some much-needed humor as Theodore, stealing every scene she's in with her quick wit and sassy attitude.

Overall, Big Stone Gap is a delightful film that is sure to appeal to fans of romantic comedies and small-town stories. Trigiani has crafted a warm and heartfelt tribute to the town she grew up in, and the result is a film that is both entertaining and touching. If you're looking for a feel-good movie that will leave you smiling, Big Stone Gap is definitely worth checking out.