La Dolce Villa

Fifty-something widower Eric Field, a businessman from Ohio, decides to return to Italy despite painful memories from his past experiences there. He travels to search for his daughter Liv, who has been spending time in the country and may be jeopardizing her future.

Eric, concerned about Liv’s decision to potentially waste her inheritance, takes a break from his consulting business to bring her back to Ohio. He hopes to reason with her and understand her motivations for her current plans.

During their travels, Liv shares her recent experiences in Italy, revealing her work as a tutor in Milan and as a nanny in Florence. She amusingly recounts how she stumbled upon the little village of Montezara while chasing a wine festival.

While enjoying coffee in Montezara, Eric and Liv meet Francesca, the town mayor, who shares details about an innovative 1-euro housing plan. This initiative aims to attract new residents to restore abandoned villas in the area.

They explore several properties that are officially available but find them unappealing. However, they discover a hidden gem that is not yet on the market, igniting their excitement about the potential plans for the villa.

After deciding to purchase the unlisted property, Eric contacts his colleague Zola to inform her of his decision to stay in Italy for a month. He assures her that he can manage his business remotely while working on the villa.

That evening, Eric encounters Francesca and Bernardo, the geometra. During their conversation, they discuss the challenges of non-Italians buying property and the hope that the housing project will rejuvenate the town's economy.

The following day, they meet the general contractor Nino, who initially said plans would take six months. However, after some persuasion from Francesca, he agrees to start the renovations immediately, setting the project in motion.

As renovations progress, Eric uncovers some hidden architectural treasures like beautiful brick floors and an authentic pizza oven. Along the way, he learns about Francesca’s similar past as a widower, which strengthens their bond.

Liv expresses her desire for Eric to leave after a month, giving him an initial investment check for the renovation. Meanwhile, Eric invites friends, including Francesca and local chef Giovanni, to share his vision of turning the villa into a culinary school.

Eric and Francesca cycle into the countryside to visit a renovated castle converted into a luxury hotel. Their day is interrupted by a meeting call for Francesca, emphasizing the challenges they face in maintaining a professional relationship.

After two months in Italy, Eric's colleague Zola warns him that a rival company, Perfect Plate, aims to poach her. Simultaneously, Liv reveals her developing relationship with Nino and how he has been assisting her with an internship.

Francesca manages to get the Fields' property approved without Bernardo's assistance. During the unveiling of the restored building, Bernardo brings a pair claiming to be the rightful heirs, creating tension and conflict over the villa.

At the train station, just before Eric leaves, Francesca catches up to him, and after a heartfelt conversation, they confess their love for each other. This moment marks a turning point in their relationship amidst all the challenges.

Months later, after merging their consulting firms, Eric and Francesca celebrate the successful opening of the culinary school in Montezara. The project has not only rejuvenated their lives but has also aided the local community.