Escape to Italy in This Charming Netflix Romance

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Intriguing Italy ads, particularly appealing during these peculiar moments, have been offering an enticing escape to a villa for merely $1. In the delightful Netflix romantic comedy titled “La Dolce Villa“, a father embarks on a spontaneous European journey to prevent his daughter from making a costly renovation investment. Add in some unexpected romantic interests and a chance to heal past wounds, and you’ve got a modern-day spin on “Under the Tuscan Sun” that promises a genuinely heartwarming experience.

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but express my excitement for “La Dolce Villa,” a movie directed by the talented Mark Waters, whose past works like “Mean Girls,” “Mother of the Bride,” and “Freaky Friday” have left an indelible mark on cinema. The screenplay, penned by Elizabeth Hackett and Hilary Galanoy, the brilliant minds behind “A Perfect Pairing” and “Falling Inn Love,” promises a delightful experience.

The cast is simply irresistible. We have Scott Foley, the captivating leading man from “Scandal,” gracing our screens once more. Then there’s Maia Reficco, the radiant beauty who has charmed Broadway audiences in “Hadestown” and television viewers in “Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin.” Lastly, we have Violante Placido, a charming and exotic actress known for her role in “The American.”

Together, they bring to life a delightful blend of intrigue and romance that is deeply rooted in all things Italian. It’s a recipe that guarantees an instant connection with the audience, making “La Dolce Villa” a movie not to be missed!

‘La Dolce Villa’ Is Familiar but Comforting

You won’t be faulted for predicting where the story ends up; it follows a familiar pattern in romantic films. However, what sets La Dolce Vita apart is its unique charm, which distinguishes it from other rom-coms such as Ridley Scott’s captivating A Good Year and Liam Neeson’s Made in Italy, both of which share a similar theme and are available on Netflix. This distinctiveness can be attributed to the well-crafted script, with its expected elements cleverly twisted, as well as a strong cast, particularly Foley, who consistently demonstrates his ability to lead movies and TV series (We’re still pining for your return in Whiskey Cavalier).

Despite the numerous potential issues that could have arisen with “La Dolce Villa,” it manages to maintain a pleasant and unobtrusive tone in all its artistic elements. It’s a film suitable for the whole family, offering a breath of fresh air amidst today’s overwhelming barrage of additional stimuli, especially within the horror genre. In this aspect, its simple narrative style is an unexpected delight.

Sweet but Not Saccharine Enough to Form Cavities

In this story, we see that Eric, Foley’s son who has been struggling since losing his wife, is discovered hiding in his workplace. His daughter, Olivia (Reficco), is growing up quickly, and their bond becomes strained when she decides to buy a home in an Italian town. The movie was filmed in Rome, Lazio, and Tuscany. Despite Eric’s attempts to dissuade her, Olivia moves forward with her plan, much to the delight of the town’s mayor, Francesca (Placido), who hopes that new residents like them will help revitalize the struggling town. Eventually, they reach an understanding, and Eric reluctantly agrees to assist Olivia in purchasing the property. As they take possession of a dilapidated villa boasting a beautiful view, we get a hint of the transformation it’s about to undergo.

In this movie, the directors skillfully showcase Italy’s breathtaking landscapes, effectively enhancing its role as a key character alongside human actors. A delightful moment is when the protagonist, Eric, restores an old bicycle from the villa and cycles to town, adding a personal touch. Moreover, the scene of three elderly women chatting around the town’s fountain adds authenticity. In essence, the film exudes a captivating charm reminiscent of “Under the Tuscan Sun.” Similarly, Simone Luglio portrays Nino as a supportive figure, acting like a caring caretaker and friend.

In addition to older generations, Millennials and Gen Z aren’t forgotten either, as the character Olivia develops a relationship with a handsome local named Giovanni (Giuseppe Futia). The film becomes more engaging by introducing some challenges for Eric (his job), Francesca (her plans encountering issues), and Olivia, who is faced with another intriguing proposition. Cafés, espressos, wine tastings, picturesque walks through the historic town – there’s plenty to appreciate. The movie manages to shake off a middle-section lull by doing so.

Feel-Good Fun for the Entire Family

In the picturesque romance “Falling Inn Love,” written by Elizabeth Hackett and Hilary Galanoy, a city dweller unexpectedly wins a quaint New Zealand inn through a contest. Pairing up with a kind-hearted contractor, romantic sparks ignite and love blossoms. Similar themes are found in “La Dolce Villa,” as the filmmakers distribute affection between Eric and Francesca, along with Olivia and Giovanni. However, the narrative primarily follows Eric’s journey, both in his relationship with his daughter and considering a new chance at love. On the other hand, Olivia is more focused on establishing fresh opportunities, while also questioning whether her father will accept their shared grief.

Instead of exploring the complex psychological aspects of overcoming trauma and personal transformation in depth, this movie chooses to maintain a lighter tone, wrapping themes like grief and significant life changes in a cheerful ribbon and presenting them as charming packages. This approach suits the film’s nature, being a comedy as it is. The closing 15 minutes aim to wrap up any remaining conflicts, making it a worthwhile experience for you to discover. Despite its more lighthearted approach, it still manages to bring a broad smile.

For now, Italy remains as beautiful as ever. It might be difficult for some to acknowledge it, but in 2025, it’s challenging to come across someone who isn’t weary of social media, rapid news headlines, and the impact technology has on our mental health.

This movie serves as a gentle reminder that, yes indeed, people can forge connections with one another and appreciate the splendor of their surroundings – even without modern gadgets like cell phones. It’s almost preachy, yet heartwarming. To put it simply, La Dolce Villa boasts a talented cast, delightful dialogue, and breathtaking scenery, making it the perfect cozy escape. Feel free to press “play” whenever you’re ready for some relaxation. This movie is a soothing addition to your collection.

Starting February 13, stream La Dolce Villa on Netflix via the link provided below:

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2025-02-13 12:04