In 2025, Netflix added La Dolce Villa to its growing list of feel-good romantic films, tapping into a familiar fantasy—starting over in the Italian countryside. With an easygoing narrative, warm visuals, and themes of personal healing, this new release blends classic charm with modern emotion. But what’s the story really about, and is it worth watching? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is La Dolce Villa About?
The story follows Olivia Field, a young American woman played by Maia Reficco, who stumbles upon Italy’s one-euro home scheme and makes a spontaneous decision to buy a crumbling villa in the fictional town of Montezara. Her father, Eric Field (played by Scott Foley), a widowed businessman, is less than thrilled. He flies to Italy hoping to talk her out of what he believes is a terrible financial decision. But as days pass, both find themselves drawn into the life of the quiet town and its people.
Eric’s interactions with Francesca, the town’s no-nonsense mayor, portrayed by Violante Placido, bring a quiet romantic thread into the story. Meanwhile, Olivia’s determination to renovate the villa becomes a symbol of her need for independence and purpose.
While the story isn’t groundbreaking, it’s steady, relatable, and well-paced. At its heart, this is a movie about rebuilding—structures, relationships, and oneself.
Where Was La Dolce Villa Filmed?
Though Montezara is fictional, the film was shot in very real locations across Italy. The production team chose San Quirico d’Orcia in Tuscany for much of the film’s outdoor scenes. The charming narrow streets and scenic rolling hills perfectly matched the story’s tone. Additional scenes were filmed in Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage town known for its renaissance architecture, and in parts of Rome and the Lazio countryside.
This careful selection of locations lends the movie an authentic Italian atmosphere without over-romanticizing it. It’s not the postcard version of Italy—it’s lived-in, slightly worn, and quietly beautiful.
Characters and Cast: Who’s Who?
- Eric Field – Played by Scott Foley, Eric is a widower and businessman dealing with grief and strained family ties. His reluctant journey to Italy opens a new chapter in his life.
- Olivia Field – Maia Reficco brings Olivia to life as a determined, spontaneous daughter searching for meaning and direction. She is the girl who buys a villa in Italy—not just for escape, but for transformation.
- Francesca – Portrayed by Violante Placido, Francesca is the small-town mayor with a sharp mind and a soft heart. Her character brings quiet depth to the storyline.
The chemistry among the cast is grounded and believable, steering clear of melodrama. It’s understated but effective.
A Feel-Good Movie with Scenic Backdrops
Visually, it is one of those Netflix 2025 movies that balances mood and setting with precision. The Italian countryside plays a central role—not just as a backdrop but as a living, breathing part of the plot. From crumbling stone villas to village festivals, the film stays committed to its environment.
This is not a high-stakes film. It’s slow, scenic, and built for comfort. If you’re looking for a loud, plot-heavy romantic drama, this won’t be it. But if you’re in the mood for something light with a warm tone, it fits the bill.
Review of La Dolce Villa: Is It Worth Watching?
In terms of critical reception, this film has drawn mixed but fair reviews. Some praise it as a feel-good film that does exactly what it sets out to do. Others feel it sticks too close to the rom-com formula without taking risks. That criticism holds weight—it doesn’t challenge the genre, but it doesn’t need to.
This is a movie that knows its audience. It’s for the viewer who enjoys a quiet, romantic plotline. Someone who wants a story about ordinary people trying to heal, framed by old villas and olive trees.
There’s no unnecessary glamor, no artificial suspense. Just people figuring themselves out in a believable, slightly poetic setting.
Why Would this film work for you?
- Relatable themes: Grief, change, and starting over are handled with maturity and restraint.
- Solid performances: The acting never feels forced. Scott Foley plays Eric with quiet sadness and charm, while Reficco’s Olivia feels like someone we might actually know.
- Pace and tone: The story moves gently, without rushing the emotional arcs.
- Visual storytelling: Italy is captured beautifully, without falling into travel-promo territory.
The movie is likely to appeal to fans of European-set romantic comedies like Under the Tuscan Sun or Letters to Juliet, but with a slightly more grounded approach.
Who Should Watch This Movie?
If you’re someone who enjoys the idea of slowing down, of starting something new, or if the idea of a girl restoring a villa in Italy intrigues you, then La Dolce Villa is a comfortable pick. It doesn’t demand too much, but it delivers enough. For fans of soft, scenic storytelling and family-oriented plots, this film is a pleasant watch on a quiet weekend evening.
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