Netflix recently held a lively New York screening for its forthcoming romantic comedy, La Dolce Villa, featuring rising star Maia Reficco and Scott Foley. The screening not only showcased the film but celebrated the film’s talent, as Reficco reunited with her fellow cast members from the acclaimed musical Hadestown, including Emily Afton and Grace Yoo. The event was also graced by notable figures such as Sunset Boulevard star Tom Francis and Foley's Scandal co-star Bellamy Young.
The excitement around La Dolce Villa encapsulates the film's promise to revive the romantic comedy genre. Directed by Mark Waters, whose portfolio includes iconic films like Mean Girls and Freaky Friday, the film tells the charming tale of Eric, played by Foley. He is depicted as a desperate father who travels to picturesque Italy to dissuade his daughter Olivia, portrayed by Reficco, from investing her savings to restore a villa she purchased for just one Euro.
Set against the backdrop of Italy's enchanting landscapes, the film is said to weave tales of beauty, romance, and personal adventure. Netflix’s own synopsis enlivens the narrative: “When his daughter decides to buy a crumbling Tuscan villa, Eric rushes to Italy to talk her out of it — and instead finds beauty, romance, and new purpose.”
The cast of La Dolce Villa features several talented actors including Violante Placido, Giuseppe Futia, and Simone Luglio among others, collectively contributing to what is expected to be a captivating cinematic experience. With Valentine's Day fast approaching, the film's release on February 13, 2025, could not be more aptly timed for audiences seeking romantic escapades.
Robyn Snyder, one of the film's producers, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “It’s Italy, so their prospects are excellent!” This highlights the film’s focus not just on romance but also on discovering one’s purpose and engaging with life’s abundant opportunities.
Scott Foley also shared insights about his role, mentioning, “I am desperate... to forge a new and different relationship with his daughter as this movie unwinds.” This underlines the film’s emotional core, elevationally intertwining familial bonds and personal transformations throughout Eric's trip to Italy.
Upon viewing the screening, it was evident through the camaraderie and shared experience among cast members how impactful the project has been for them. The reunion of Reficco with fellow castmates from Hadestown and the strong ensemble cast showcased the interconnected community found within the musical and film industries.
With its picturesque soundtrack and heartwarming narrative, La Dolce Villa is set not just to entertain but to remind viewers of the serendipity of life — how unexpected encounters can lead to newfound love and self-discovery.
Fans of romantic narratives and comedic storytelling are eagerly awaiting the movie’s debut on Netflix, hoping it will fill the compelling niche of entertaining family-friendly cinematic offerings. The film promises to embody everything delightful about romantic comedies, making its launch one to watch for this upcoming Valentine's season.