La Dolce Villa (2025) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Netflix’s latest romantic comedy, La Dolce Villa (2025), takes viewers on a picturesque journey through the Italian countryside. Directed by Mark Waters and written by Elizabeth Hackett and Hilary Galanoy, the film follows a father-daughter duo navigating family tensions, self-discovery, and a crumbling villa in need of restoration.
With stunning backdrops and a heartwarming premise, La Dolce Villa aims to capture the charm of classic rom-coms. But does it succeed in delivering an unforgettable cinematic experience, or is it destined to be another forgettable addition to Netflix’s catalog? Let’s dive in.
Plot Summary
Eric (Scott Foley), a successful but emotionally distant businessman, travels to Italy to stop his daughter Olivia “Liv” (Maia Reficco) from squandering her inheritance on a dilapidated villa she impulsively bought for just €1. His plan? Convince her to give up on the house and return home.
However, Italy has other plans. As Liv embraces her new adventure, she finds herself drawn to the village’s warmth, including a charming local chef, Giovanni (Giuseppe Futia). Meanwhile, Eric’s reluctant stay takes an unexpected turn when he meets Francesca (Violante Placido), the town’s mayor, who helps him see life beyond his rigid business mindset.
Together, father and daughter navigate grief, new beginnings, and the magic of Italy—learning that sometimes, slowing down and embracing the unknown can lead to the most unexpected joys.
Review: A Familiar Formula with Scenic Rewards
Father-Daughter Dynamic Steals the Show
One of La Dolce Villa’s strongest aspects is its focus on the father-daughter relationship. Unlike many rom-coms that prioritize romance, this film delves into Eric and Liv’s strained connection. Their journey—marked by grief, misunderstandings, and eventual reconciliation—adds an emotional depth that stands out.
Maia Reficco brings youthful optimism to Liv, making her character likable despite some underdeveloped motivations. Scott Foley, on the other hand, convincingly portrays a man stuck in his ways, slowly rediscovering joy in life. Their evolving relationship provides some of the film’s most heartfelt moments.
Aesthetically Pleasing but Lacking Depth
Visually, La Dolce Villa is a treat. The Italian countryside, sun-soaked vineyards, and rustic villas serve as a dreamy escape. However, despite being filmed on location, the cinematography feels overly polished—like an Instagram reel rather than an immersive experience. Unlike Under the Tuscan Sun, which captured the raw beauty and culture of Italy, La Dolce Villa offers postcard-perfect shots that lack authenticity.
A Predictable, Safe Storyline
Unfortunately, where the film falters is in originality. The plot follows the well-trodden path of countless other romantic comedies. It borrows heavily from classics like Under the Tuscan Sun but fails to add any fresh perspective.
The romance between Eric and Francesca feels particularly underwhelming. Their relationship progresses through formulaic encounters, lacking the natural chemistry that would make viewers root for them. Similarly, Liv’s connection with Giovanni, while charming, doesn’t bring anything new to the genre.
Comedy That Misses the Mark
For a romantic comedy, La Dolce Villa struggles with its humor. The lighthearted moments feel forced, and several jokes fail to land. While the film maintains a wholesome and comforting tone, it lacks the wit or sharp writing that could have elevated its comedic elements.
A Comfort Film, but Forgettable
Ultimately, La Dolce Villa is a film that plays it safe. It doesn’t challenge rom-com conventions, nor does it attempt to innovate. Instead, it serves as easy, background entertainment—pleasant but forgettable.
If you’re looking for a cozy, no-stakes movie to unwind with, this film fits the bill. However, if you’re hoping for something fresh or deeply engaging, you might be left wanting more.
Where to Watch La Dolce Villa Online
As a Netflix Original, La Dolce Villa is exclusively available for streaming on Netflix worldwide, including the U.S.
Streaming & Rental Options in America
- Streaming: Available on Netflix (subscription required).
- Rental/Purchase: Not available for digital rental or purchase at this time, as it is a Netflix exclusive.
Final Verdict: Should You Watch It?
✅ Watch it if:
✔️ You enjoy lighthearted, feel-good movies with beautiful scenery.
✔️ You appreciate heartwarming father-daughter stories.
✔️ You’re looking for an easy watch to unwind.
❌ Skip it if:
❌ You want an original, thought-provoking romantic comedy.
❌ You’re looking for strong comedic writing.
❌ You prefer romance films with deeper character development.
While La Dolce Villa doesn’t reinvent the rom-com genre, it offers a sweet, escapist trip to Italy with a heartwarming core. If you love scenic movies with predictable yet comforting storytelling, this might be worth adding to your Netflix queue.
