Netflix’s latest romantic comedy, La Dolce Villa, has swept audiences off their feet, quickly claiming the #1 spot on the streaming platform. Premiering just in time for Valentine’s Day on February 13, 2025, the film soared to the top within 24 hours of its release, captivating viewers with its perfect blend of heart, humor, and stunning Italian landscapes.
A Story of Love, Family, and Finding Yourself in Tuscany
La Dolce Villa invites viewers on a heartwarming journey set against the breathtaking backdrop of rural Italy. Scott Foley (Felicity, Scandal) stars as Eric, a meticulous and protective father who jets off to Italy with one mission — to stop his spirited daughter, Olivia (played by Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin star Maia Reficco), from investing in a crumbling Tuscan villa. But what starts as a damage-control mission quickly transforms into a life-changing adventure.
As Eric navigates the charm and chaos of small-town Italy, he crosses paths with Francesca, the town’s captivating mayor, portrayed by Italian actress Violante Placido (The American). Francesca’s passion for preserving her town’s heritage slowly melts Eric’s hardened exterior, leading to unexpected romance and a reawakening of his own dreams.
Behind the Scenes: The Magic of Italy on Screen
The visual splendor of La Dolce Villa is more than just a backdrop — it’s a character in itself. Filmed across the rolling hills of Tuscany, the cultural richness of Rome, and the historic eastern Lazio region, the film transports viewers into the heart of Italy’s countryside. Interior scenes were brought to life at Rome’s iconic Cinecittà Studios, the legendary film lot known as the birthplace of Italian cinema and the backdrop for classics like Roman Holiday and La Dolce Vita.
Director Mark Waters, famed for cult classics like Mean Girls and Freaky Friday, once again proves his knack for crafting heartfelt comedies. His collaboration with screenwriting duo Elizabeth Hackett and Hilary Galanoy — the creative minds behind Netflix fan-favorites A Perfect Pairing and Falling Inn Love — results in a script that masterfully balances humor, romance, and emotional depth.
Why Audiences Can’t Get Enough
While critics have offered mixed reviews — citing the film’s predictability — audiences have been overwhelmingly charmed. Viewers are praising La Dolce Villa for its feel-good energy, the undeniable chemistry between Foley and Placido, and its “Italian escapism” — the kind that makes you want to pack your bags and move to the Tuscan countryside.
In an era where viewers crave comfort content, La Dolce Villa delivers the perfect cinematic getaway. Its success also highlights the enduring appeal of the “under-the-Tuscan-sun” genre, where self-discovery and love bloom in olive groves and sun-drenched piazzas.
A New Chapter in Netflix’s Romance Catalog
Netflix has long been a hub for light-hearted, globe-trotting rom-coms (The Holiday Calendar, Love in the Villa, Falling Inn Love), but La Dolce Villa adds a fresh, mature touch. By centering the story on a father’s transformation — rather than a young couple’s whirlwind romance — the film taps into deeper themes of second chances, family bonds, and the courage it takes to start over.
So, if you’re in the mood for a feel-good film that blends humor, heart, and a passport to Tuscany, La Dolce Villa is your ticket. And if you find yourself Googling “Tuscan villas for sale” afterward… you’re not alone.
La Dolce Villa is now streaming on Netflix.
Key Takeaways
- “La Dolce Villa” reached Netflix’s #1 spot within 24 hours of its February 13 release
- Scott Foley leads the cast in this romantic transformation story set in Tuscany
- The film comes from the director of “Mean Girls” and writers of “A Perfect Pairing”
Plot and Setting
La Dolce Villa blends romance and comedy in a charming Italian countryside setting, where an American businessman’s attempt to stop his daughter’s villa restoration project leads to unexpected love and self-discovery.
Italian Countryside Romance
Scott Foley stars as Eric, a successful businessman who travels to Italy to prevent his daughter Liv from spending her inheritance on restoring an old villa. The story unfolds in eastern Lazio, 45 minutes outside Rome, where the picturesque countryside serves as a stunning backdrop.
Eric’s initial plan to halt the renovation quickly transforms when he meets Giovanni, the local chef whose culinary talents and persistent charm catch Liv’s attention. The film captures the essence of Italian culture through authentic locations and meaningful interactions.
The villa’s interiors were crafted at the historic Cinecittá Studios in Rome, where Federico Fellini filmed La Dolce Vita in 1960.
Lighthearted Adventures in Tuscany
The story takes several unexpected turns as Eric spends a month at the villa, gradually warming to both the restoration project and the Italian way of life. His daughter’s vision for the property begins to make more sense as he witnesses the transformation.
Romance blooms among the olive groves and vineyards of Tuscany. The film showcases local traditions, wine tastings, and countryside festivals that pull Eric deeper into Italian culture.
The plot reaches its turning point when Liv presents Eric with a check for his initial $5,000 investment, challenging him to see the value beyond the financial aspects of their Italian adventure.
Cast and Crew
Scott Foley leads this romantic comedy as Eric, a businessman who discovers love while helping his daughter renovate an Italian villa. The film brings together experienced Hollywood talent with fresh faces from Italy’s entertainment scene.
A Blend of Talents
Scott Foley portrays Eric, the protective father who travels to Italy to monitor his daughter’s spending. His extensive TV experience from shows like Scandal shines through in this leading role.
Maia Reficco plays Olivia, Eric’s free-spirited daughter. The young actress brings her recent experience from Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin to create a believable father-daughter dynamic.
Violante Placido takes on the role of Francesca, Eric’s romantic interest. Her previous work in The American and Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance adds depth to the character.
Director Mark Waters, known for Mean Girls, guides the project with his signature style. The screenplay comes from the writing duo Elizabeth Hackett and Hilary Galanoy, who craft the story’s blend of romance and comedy.
Giuseppe Futia makes his Hollywood debut as Giovanni, rounding out the main cast with a fresh perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions
‘La Dolce Villa‘ shot to Netflix’s #1 spot within 24 hours of its February 13 release, starring Scott Foley in this romantic comedy filmed across scenic Italian locations.
Who stars in the film ‘La Dolce Villa’ currently trending on Netflix?
Scott Foley, known for his roles in “Felicity” and “Scandal,” plays the lead businessman character in this romantic comedy.
Can I find reviews for ‘La Dolce Villa’ and its overall rating on Rotten Tomatoes?
The film has received limited critical attention on Rotten Tomatoes, with only seven reviews posted since its release.
A definitive score has not yet been established due to the small number of reviews.
What is the release date of the trending film ‘La Dolce Villa’ on Netflix?
‘La Dolce Villa’ premiered on Netflix on February 13, 2024.
The film reached the #1 position on Netflix’s most-watched movies list within its first 24 hours of release.
What are some of the recent top 10 movies available on Netflix?
‘La Dolce Villa’ currently occupies the top position in Netflix’s movie rankings.
The platform updates its top 10 list daily based on viewer activity.
How does Netflix determine its number one movie at any given time?
Netflix uses its public ranking system to track and display the most-watched content on the platform.
The ranking takes into account recent viewing numbers across Netflix’s global audience.
Are there other films similar to ‘La Dolce Villa’ recommended on Netflix?
The movie was filmed in iconic Italian locations including Rome, eastern Lazio, and Tuscany.
Netflix suggests similar romantic comedies set in European locations to viewers who enjoy ‘La Dolce Villa.’
The film’s production took place at Cinecittá Studios in Rome, the same studio where Fellini’s classic ‘La Dolce Vita’ was filmed in 1960.
