Feast of the Seven Fishes

In a rust-belt town beside the Monongahela River in 1983, Tony Oliverio grapples with the weight of responsibility. As a creative Italian-American Catholic boy, he feels torn between managing the family grocery store and pursuing his passion for art.

On Christmas Eve, Tony invites Beth, an Ivy League-educated Protestant girl, to their family's seafood feast. This decision ignites an unexpected chemistry between them, setting the stage for a memorable holiday.

Days before Christmas, Tony meets Beth after she is abandoned by her boyfriend, Prentice. Their shared experiences of disappointment foster a deep connection, awakening Tony's feelings.

As Tony and Beth's romance blossoms, Tony's unresolved feelings for his troubled ex-girlfriend, Katie, surface. He struggles with his sense of duty toward her, complicating his blossoming relationship with Beth.

Tony discovers Katie performing at a local strip club and rushes to confront her, leading to a confrontation with the club's owner. This intervention highlights Tony's lingering emotional ties and complicates his relationship with Beth.

Tony and Beth share a cozy platonic evening at the art studio behind his grandparents' house. This intimate setting allows them to delve deeper into their feelings, solidifying their bond.

The morning after their intimate evening, Tony's great-grandmother, Nonna, is shocked to find Beth in their home. Despite her initial disapproval, she invites Beth to join their traditional feast, marking a pivotal moment for acceptance.

As the family festivities unfold, Beth's mother pressures her to reconsider attending the Oliverio gathering due to cultural differences. Nevertheless, Beth remains determined to support Tony and enjoy the holiday with his family.

Katie, feeling lost and acknowledging her emotional turmoil, recognizes her connection to Tony's family is slipping away. She encounters Juke, who provides her with a moment of comfort and understanding amid her struggles.

During midnight Mass, Beth and Nonna share a touching moment, bridging their cultural differences through prayer. This experience deepens their understanding and highlights the importance of unity and respect.

As the Oliverio family's celebration continues, tension arises when Beth's mother and Prentice arrive, leading to a heated confrontation. In a decisive moment, Tony stands up to Prentice, but the outcome leaves him heartbroken.

In the aftermath of the chaotic gathering, Juke sneaks away with food to comfort Katie. They find solace together amidst their shared turmoil, providing a necessary breather from the holiday chaos.

On Christmas morning, Katie returns to Tony's doorstep, symbolically handing back his jacket. This encounter brings a sense of nostalgia and clarity, as they both acknowledge their growth and the need for change.

Inspired by a heartfelt talk with his grandfather about artistic dreams, Tony embarks on a new path. This conversation sparks a renewed sense of purpose within him as he navigates his future.

As Christmas Day unfolds, Beth decides to follow her heart, defying her mother's warnings. She and Tony share their first kiss, solidifying their bond and marking a new beginning for both of them.