La Dolce Villa is a warm romantic comedy about family, second chances and allowing a change of scenery to change your priorities. Its plot offers few surprises, but the characters make the familiar journey enjoyable.
Eric Field travels to Italy to stop his daughter Olivia from taking on a dilapidated villa. The former chef has become a businessman, and practicality initially takes precedence over adventure. Life in Tuscany, and his encounters with mayor Francesca, gradually challenge that outlook.
Scott Foley gives Eric skepticism, vulnerability and an appealing sense of humor. His chemistry with Violante Placido makes the romance easy to accept. Maia Reficco brings confidence to Olivia, while the conversations between father and daughter balance affection with believable friction.
Mark Waters uses the Italian surroundings as part of the film's mood rather than merely a postcard behind the actors. The locations and Caroline Ho's music help sustain its relaxed atmosphere. The villa renovation also gives the family story something concrete to work toward.
The developments remain predictable. Anyone looking for an unconventional romance will know where most of this is heading. For me, that matters less here than the warmth of the performances and the way the family relationship holds the story together.
La Dolce Villa works as an undemanding, good-natured escape. It has enough heart to make its familiar ideas about a fresh start feel inviting.