Netflix’s latest Italian offering, “The Love Scam,” directed by Umberto Riccioni Carteni, brings a familiar flavor to the romantic comedy genre. Starring Antonio Folletto, Laura Adriani, and Vincenzo Nemolato, this 2025 release offers a light-hearted escape that, while not groundbreaking, manages to entertain with its blend of romantic tropes and Italian flair.
The film centers around two brothers grappling with a looming debt that threatens to leave them homeless. In a classic rom-com setup, one brother decides to woo the daughter of their creditor’s company owner. Add a baby named Napoleoni to the mix, and you’ve got the recipe for a predictable yet mildly amusing romantic adventure.
“The Love Scam” leans heavily on the charisma of its lead actors. Folletto and Adriani play the attractive protagonists with adequate charm, while Nemolato brings some comic relief as the mischievous brother. The film navigates familiar territory, touching on themes of class differences and urban speculation in Naples, which adds a slight edge to an otherwise generic plot.
While the movie doesn’t break new ground in storytelling, it does offer moments of genuine warmth and humor. The filmmakers have crafted a story that feels comfortably familiar, leveraging romantic comedy clichés to create a viewing experience that’s easy to digest, if not particularly memorable.
The Neapolitan setting provides a picturesque backdrop, and the film makes an effort to incorporate local flavor into its narrative. However, it doesn’t fully capitalize on its potential to offer a unique cultural perspective, instead opting for a more universally palatable approach to romance.
“The Love Scam” is the kind of film that knows its audience. It’s not aiming to redefine the genre or offer profound insights into relationships. Instead, it provides a momentary distraction with likable characters and a straightforward plot. The humor is gentle rather than uproarious, and the romantic elements are more sweet than passionate.
For viewers seeking an undemanding romantic comedy with an Italian twist, “The Love Scam” fits the bill. It’s a film that doesn’t ask much of its audience, offering a brief escape into a world where love conquers all and happy endings are guaranteed. While it may not leave a lasting impression, it serves its purpose as light entertainment for a relaxed evening at home.
In the vast sea of Netflix content, “The Love Scam” floats along comfortably in the middle – neither sinking under the weight of its conventions nor soaring to new heights of romantic storytelling. It’s a film that knows what it is and doesn’t pretend to be anything more, which, in its own way, is refreshingly honest.
Where to Watch “The Love Scam”
