In the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany, Netflix’s latest romantic comedy “La Dolce Villa” unfolds a tale of unexpected love and self-discovery. Directed by Mark Waters, known for his work on “Mean Girls,” the film stars Scott Foley as Eric, a successful businessman who finds himself on an unplanned Italian adventure.
The story centers around Eric’s journey to Italy, initially driven by a paternal mission to prevent his daughter Olivia, played by Maia Reficco, from emptying her bank account on the restoration of a dilapidated villa. However, as with many tales set in the Italian countryside, the country has other plans for our protagonist.
Foley, reflecting on his character’s arc, notes, “His initial determination — to save his daughter from making what he believes would be a huge mistake in purchasing property in Italy — turns out to be a sort of second chance at happiness for Eric, in so many ways!” This transformation forms the heart of the film’s narrative, exploring themes of second chances and the unexpected paths to happiness.
The film’s premise taps into the real-world phenomenon of Italian towns selling historic properties for as little as one euro, a scheme designed to revitalize dwindling communities. This backdrop provides a rich setting for the film’s exploration of cultural clash and personal growth.
Violante Placido joins the cast as Francesca, presumably a local who becomes entangled in Eric’s Italian sojourn. The chemistry between Foley and Placido is likely to be a focal point, as the film navigates the well-trodden but ever-popular path of finding love in unexpected places.
At its core, “La Dolce Villa” appears to be a story about the transformative power of place. The crumbling villa, far from being a mere backdrop, becomes a character in its own right – a symbol of renewal and possibility. As Eric grapples with his daughter’s dreams and his own preconceptions, the villa stands as a testament to the beauty found in imperfection and the potential for new beginnings.
The film promises to deliver the quintessential elements of a romantic comedy set against the stunning vistas of the Italian countryside. While the premise may sound familiar to aficionados of the genre, the involvement of Waters as director suggests there might be more depth to this tale than initially meets the eye.
As “La Dolce Villa” makes its debut on Netflix, it offers viewers a chance to vicariously experience the charm of Tuscany and the allure of unexpected romance. Whether it will rise above the conventions of its genre remains to be seen, but for those seeking a momentary escape to sun-drenched Italian landscapes and the promise of love, this film appears poised to deliver.
Where to Watch “La Dolce Villa”
The Cast
Simone Luglio
Tommaso Basili
Nunzia Schiano
Luisa De Santis
Lucia Ricalzone
