Young Marco’s grandfather introduces Marco to bocce ball and to the neighborhood crew of old Italian men who play after Nonno moves in. With sport, laughter, and love, Marco rounds up a team of neighborhood kids to take on Nonno’s team.
“Team Marco” will definitely bring a smile to one’s face as we witness the interactions between Marco (Owen Vaccaro) and his Nonno (Anthony Patellis), Italian for Grandfather. The vastly separated childhood experiences between the two is a topic of frustration as they contradict one another step for step. Marco loves to stay indoors and play his videogames. As a child of the 21st century, Marco is well informed and capable of learning through the ever-expanding internet, thus, giving him every reason to safely play indoors with his games than risk infection from disease-ridden mosquitos or life-threatening allergies. His Nonno on the other hand, is old school. He’s from the countryside in Italy and immigrated to the states for a better life after the war. He remembers finding any reason to play outside with his friends when they had the chance. He remembers his children playing outside as kids and spending time as a family outdoors. So, for him to see his legacy, his grandson, being such a recluse breaks his heart as it contradicts a life lesson that runs through the film; Friends are what make life worth living.
Marco’s transformation through the film is nothing groundbreaking but the performance saves the day from the entire cast. Owen Vaccaro’s performance especially hits as his whiny and entitled Marco can really make one sympathize with his Nonno. The temper tantrums are enough to make you want to help hide his electronics and show him the wider world. Still, Vaccaro brings a warm and thoughtful wave of emotions as he learns to open his eyes to the wider world and see it through his grandfather’s. Anthony Patellis as Nonno is charming and hilarious. His grumpy demeanor disguises the pain and loneliness he feels as he mourns his wife. Friends are essential in this film, and Nonno lost his best friend of all, yet he manages to find the strength to show his grandson how to overcome life’s tragedies by having him witness first-hand the power of friendship and Bocce Ball.
“Team Marco” doesn’t bring anything new to the table. The story is predictable and straight forward but there is a true heart to this story. I can only assume how personal and honest this movie was, based on the dedication of the film to the director’s own grandparents. I believe that’s precisely what makes this movie stand out despite its cookie-cutter script. If you’re looking to have a feel-good experience in a short amount of time (92 mins), “Team Marco” may just satisfy that craving.
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