Without knowing much beforehand with the title "Once Upon a Time.." I first expected some epic sweeping three hour movie (like "Once Upon a Time in the West", "Once Upon a Time in America", etc).
What it was instead a nice drama and part mobster movie with a nice sprinkle of humor. I don't normally like dramas but I liked this one.
Being Italian my self I liked the nice positive sentiment it had about traditional Italian ways. Kind of nostalgic even.
In the movies, particularly in mobster/gangster ones, you see a lot of Italians being violent, uncaring, and generally acting pretty stupid. But nothing could be further from the truth. Most Italians in America from "the old country" (the previous generation or two) are some of the most kind, loving, and sincere people you will ever meet. It's not about the "me", it's about family, friends, and making sure your guests feel welcomed, etc.
With out giving anything away, I liked some of contrasts pointed out about the old and the new ways, etc.
It's a little slow at points maybe, but not a very enjoyable movie if your into the occasional drama.