Despite its upbeat trailer, No Reservations is a surprisingly downbeat affair about a career-driven chef (Catherine Zeta-Jones) forced to take care of her niece after her sister’s sudden passing. There are a few bubbly scenes sprinkled throughout the film, but the majority of the pic is dedicated to Zeta-Jones’ struggles to adapt to her new life. In the lead role, Zeta-Jones is surprisingly adequate. While I haven’t been the biggest fan of her previous work, she is believable as a top chef, but admittedly less so as an independent motherly-figure. Fortunately, the supporting cast is very strong and helps her carry the picture. As her rival/love interest, Aaron Eckart steals the movie, delivering a performance that is both endearing and eccentric. Also effective is Abigail Breslin, who proves that her turn in Little Miss Sunshine was no fluke. Audiences expecting a typical romantic comedy may be somewhat disappointed here, but No Reservations has just enough to warrant a mild recommendation, despite its familiar storyline and overall predictability.