On Monday, Guido’s Pizza and Catering in Ravenna became the scene of a dramatic showdown—with mobsters, FBI agents, and even a hitman filling the restaurant. But don’t worry—it was all for the cameras!
The upcoming movie, Divorcing the Mob, is currently being filmed in Ravenna, Ohio. The story follows Vinny Berlusconi, a mob underboss who chooses his wife over the mob and enters witness protection. His new life in Ravenna takes unexpected turns, leading to plenty of action and comedy.
Ravenna Takes the Spotlight
Director John Reign, who also stars as Vinny, fell in love with Ravenna and decided to showcase its charm in the film. Local businesses like Big Dog Saloon, West Main Street Winery, Bean and the Baker, and Ravenna Sip and Social are all featured, allowing viewers to see real parts of the town on screen.
At Guido’s, the cameras rolled on a tense meeting between Vinny and an FBI agent, played by Ryann Cline, the executive director of the Ravenna Area Chamber of Commerce. This was her first acting role, and she was thrilled to be part of the production. “Working with the actors has been wonderful,” she said.
Local residents also got their chance to shine. Mindy Leonard, manager at Guido’s, played a waitress while keeping an eye on the restaurant, which was closed for filming. Many Ravenna locals, including Jonathan Floyd, appeared as extras, adding to the film’s authenticity.
A Community Effort
Ravenna City Council member Cheryl Wood encouraged Reign to use as many local spots as possible, and even offered her own home for filming. “It’s a great way to showcase our town,” she said.
This isn’t the first time Portage County has been on the big screen. Other films shot in the area include the slasher movie The Hunting (filmed in Mantua) and the WWII drama Quarter Given (2023). Even Marvel’s Captain America: Winter Soldier had a scene filmed at Camp Garfield.
With action-packed scenes, local landmarks, and an engaging storyline, Divorcing the Mob is putting Ravenna on the Hollywood map—one mobster at a time!