After a hiatus of over two decades from the romantic comedy genre, actor Scott Foley is making his triumphant return in Netflix’s upcoming film, La Dolce Villa. Scheduled to release on Valentine’s Day, this charming movie follows Foley as Eric Field, a former chef turned businessman who journeys to Italy to intervene in his daughter Olivia’s ambitious villa renovation project. Along the way, he encounters the town’s mayor, Francesca, played by Violante Placido, leading to unexpected and heartwarming moments. The film showcases breathtaking Italian landscapes and promises delightful interactions between its characters. Foley shares his excitement about returning to the rom-com genre, highlighting the unique experience of filming in Rome and Tuscany, as well as working with talented co-stars like Maia Reficco and Placido.

Foley, best known for his roles in shows like Scandal and Felicity, has not taken on a true romantic comedy role since 2003. However, La Dolce Villa offers him a fresh opportunity to explore this beloved genre. In the film, Eric Field travels to Italy to prevent his daughter Olivia from renovating an old villa she purchased for just one Euro. During his stay, Eric finds himself navigating both the challenges of modernizing a historic property and the allure of the town’s mayor, Francesca. The story unfolds amidst the picturesque backdrop of Italy, where Eric experiences a series of endearing encounters that add depth to his character.

The production took place primarily in Rome and various villages in Tuscany during March and April of 2024. Foley describes the filming process as an enriching experience, allowing him to immerse himself in Italian culture. “Walking through the streets of Rome after a long day of shooting was truly special,” he reflects. Despite his limited knowledge of Italian, Foley embraced the language, attempting to communicate with locals while ordering pizza or gelato. Although his attempts were met with amusement, they added authenticity to his portrayal of Eric. Working alongside Violante Placido, who embodies the quintessential Italian charm, enhanced Foley’s performance and contributed to the film’s authenticity.

Maia Reficco, who plays Olivia, left a lasting impression on Foley. Not only did she receive approval from his teenage daughter, but her professionalism and talent also impressed him deeply. Reficco’s commitment to the role extended beyond the set, as evidenced by her Broadway performance in Hadestown, which Foley and director Mark Waters attended. This collaboration further solidified the strong bond between the cast members and elevated the overall quality of the film.

A significant aspect of the movie is the villa itself, symbolizing the real-life initiative of selling homes for one Euro to revitalize rural Italian towns. Foley, an avid woodworker, found this concept particularly appealing. While he may not be purchasing a villa anytime soon due to his wife’s objections, the idea resonated with him. Ultimately, La Dolce Villa represents a delightful blend of romance, cultural immersion, and personal growth, offering viewers a glimpse into the beauty and charm of Italy through Foley’s engaging performance.