Tea with Mussolini

In the picturesque setting of Florence in 1935, a notable group of English expatriates known as the Scorpioni gathers for their beloved afternoon tea. This diverse assembly includes Arabella, an aspiring artist, and Mary Wallace, the caregiver for young Luca, establishing a community of support among cultured women.

Mary, taking on the role of caregiver for Luca, navigates the emotional aftermath of his seamstress mother’s recent death. With Luca's father indifferent to his son's upbringing, Mary leans on her Scorpioni friends for guidance and companionship.

Elsa Morganthal, a wealthy American widow, learns of Luca's struggles and establishes a financial trust for him. This act of kindness is met with cautious approval from Lady Hester, who initially hesitates to accept Elsa into their circle.

The tranquility of the Scorpioni's gatherings is disrupted when Italian Fascists attack their favorite café. This incident mirrors the growing anxieties within the expatriate community, escalating fears of oppression and violence.

In light of the mounting tensions and Luca's father's fears regarding Italy's alliance with Germany, it is decided that Luca will be sent away to an Austrian boarding school. This decision marks a significant turning point, disrupting their lives and connection.

Five years later, Luca returns to Florence with artistic ambitions, buoyed by the support of Elsa's trust fund. However, the atmosphere remains fraught with uncertainty as many British nationals are leaving in anticipation of Mussolini's declaration of war.

Elsa and her adventurous friend Georgie Rockwell leverage their American nationality to navigate the war's limitations. Elsa begins using Luca as a courier for delivering forged documents to facilitate the Scorpioni's relocation to safer accommodations.

Amidst the war turmoil, Elsa secretly collaborates with Italian Jews to produce fake passports. Though she enlists Luca to help with the dangerous deliveries, her growing bond with him becomes complicated by her romantic interest in Vittorio, an Italian lawyer.

Vittorio’s deceitful actions lead him to abscond with Elsa's art collection and funds, while he plots to betray her to the Gestapo. Luca, consumed by jealousy, hides this betrayal from his friends until Mary uncovers the truth through Elsa’s art dealer.

After realizing the grim reality of their situation, Luca decides to redirect his trust fund to support the Italian resistance, joining forces with Wilfred. This choice marks a significant development in his character and moral compass.

In a pivotal moment, Elsa shares with Luca her past support for his mother, deepening their emotional bond. As they collaborate on escape plans, the pressure mounts with the British Army advancing toward San Gimignano.

As the war intensifies, the English women, alongside Luca, rise to protect their artistic heritage from the advancing German troops. Their steadfast resolve becomes a testament to their resilience and unity during dire circumstances.

Following the retreat of German forces, the arrival of the Scots Guards brings a sense of celebration as the community reflects on their survival. Lady Hester defiantly declares that they will rebuild their lives in Italy, asserting their resilience.

In the aftermath of the war, Luca steps into the role of an English gentleman, fulfilling his father's dream. Now dressed in a British military uniform, he embraces his identity and showcases his evolution into a gifted artist.