It’s been 21 years since we first were introduced to Toula Portokalos (Nia Vardalos) and her big, Greek family. That first film was a sensation, catching audiences by storm and captivating viewers. I remember catching the film and being drawn to the larger-than-life characters and the fun story of family.

In the sequel, which dropped in 2016, we got another check in on the family. This time Toula and Ian (John Corbett) were dealing with being parents to Paris (Elena Kampouris) and dealing with their own families and drama. It was another engaging slice of life, albeit a little less engaging than the first.

You’d be forgiven for not realizing a third installment was coming and is now out. It opened on Friday and whether due to the strikes or the marketing plan, it seemingly had little marketing campaign and buzz. This provides another check in with the family and finds them in a decidedly different place. It also transports them to a decidedly different place—their homeland of Greece.

As we pick up, Toula’s father, Gus (Michael Constantine), has passed (as did the actor who played him). Her mother (Lainie Kazan) is in grief, but also dealing with memory issues. That leaves it to Toula, and her family, to make a trek to Greece for a reunion in her father’s hometown. She hopes to share his journal with the three best friends he left behind.

While in Greece, things don’t go as planned. But can Toula make the most of it and accomplish her goals and bring closure for her siblings.

Did we need another installment of this franchise? Perhaps not. But this third film—written and directed by Vardalos—is a beautiful tribute to family. It also brings forward some different themes than the previous films. It resonated with me on a different emotional level, perhaps reflecting the journey we go on as adults.

Vardalos is great in this role. She knows these people and this world. The comedic beats that recur throughout the film work well, too. I enjoy Corbett as her husband Ian and have always enjoyed Andrea Martin as Aunt Voula. This film more heavily featured Louis Mandylor as Nick, who has some nice moments, and introduced Melina Kotselou as Victory, a fun addition to the world of the film.

The location becomes a part of the story. It was a fun showcase for Greece and a fitting continuation for these characters. It’s a loving tribute to those no longer here for the films and an experience that looks at the process of growing and assuming a new role in the family.

These tales of family and adventures aren’t deep but they’re heart-warming. They work best when they strike the right balance between humor and heart, and this film hits that balance well. It’s possible it’s my favorite of the franchise but at the least is a great bookend to the first film.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.