Loraine Bracco Was the First Choice for Mona Lisa
Marisa Tomei delivered an outstanding performance as Mona Lisa Vito, the photography enthusiast, car expert, and former hairdresser. Though it’s hard to picture anyone else in the role, Tomei wasn’t the initial choice for the part. Lorraine Bracco was originally offered the role but declined due to personal reasons, leading to newcomer Marisa Tomei being cast instead. The decision proved to be spot-on, as Tomei went on to win her first and only Oscar for the role—remarkably, the film’s sole Oscar nomination.
Loraine Bracco Was The First Choice For Mona Lisa
The Actor Who Plays Judge Haller is Actually from NY
In the film, Alabama Judge Haller, portrayed by Fred Gwynne, relentlessly teases Joe Pesci’s Vinny for his New York roots, mocking his attire and speech. This is quite ironic since Fred Gwynne himself is a New York native, while Joe Pesci hails from nearby New Jersey. Despite Gwynne’s Eastern origins, his portrayal of the Southern Judge Haller is so convincingly accurate that it’s hard to believe he wasn’t a native of the South.
The Actor Who Plays Judge Haller Is Actually From NY
