One of the genres I consider the least serious is romantic comedies, and that lack of seriousness is never a bad thing because sometimes all you need is comfort viewing. Netflix, the biggest streaming service, is basically a pro at pumping out originals in this genre that hit every trope imaginable, and you still come away feeling joyful. That’s why I’m surprised “You, Me & Tuscany” is a theatrical release from Universal, and not something Netflix would have produced.
- Rating: 3/5 stars
- Verdict: “You, Me and Tuscany” is a familiar, visually delightful rom-com with sweet chemistry and sun-drenched Italian scenery. While it leans heavily on clichés and predictable setups, it still offers a cozy, escapist slice of romance that’s easy to enjoy.
- Where to watch: "You, Me and Tuscany" premieres in U.S. theaters on April 10
“You, Me and Tuscany” is exactly the kind of movie you’d expect. Starring Halle Bailey and Regé-Jean Page, this new romantic comedy follows a struggling young chef who travels to Tuscany, pretends to be a villa owner’s fiancée, and finds unexpected romance along the way. Naturally, it plays out like a good pairing of cheese and wine, with much of the script feeling like a Netflix original, but there’s a lot to like about its charm.
But there’s a big reason why “You, Me and Tuscany” still works on the big screen rather than on streaming, and it all comes down to its central setting: Italy. With plenty of sunshine, glorious local food to make your mouth water, and a villa plucked straight from a fairytale, this rom-com takes pleasure in being a glossy form of escapism. Here’s why genre lovers should still catch it on the big screen this weekend
‘You, Me and Tuscany’ gains extra flair from its visuals
Director Kat Coiro is clearly aware of how the rom-com genre works. The film opens with Anna strolling down the street in a glamorous outfit before entering an extravagant home, only for the real owner to return and react in disbelief. It quickly becomes clear that Anna has been living in the house, wearing the owner’s clothes and slipping into her lifestyle. The setup feels very reminiscent of “Housesitter,” making for classic comedy.
From there, much of the film echoes “While You Were Sleeping,” particularly in its mistaken identity and accidental romance setup. Anna’s dream of getting her life together in Tuscany unravels when she pretends to be the villa owner’s fiancée, only to be warmly embraced by the family. Things become more complicated when she meets the handsome cousin, played by the beloved “Bridgerton” star, who is given plenty of opportunities to show up with an open shirt and, more often than not, drenched in water.
Coiro embraces these clichés and inspirations sincerely, never pausing to poke fun at them. It’s also thanks to Page and Bailey’s charming on-screen connection. While they don’t have the most sizzling spark I’ve ever seen, it’s clear they’re having a good time, and that’s what matters. With her bubbly presence and endearingly chaotic drive, Bailey feels tailor-made for a rom-com lead. Opposite her, Page returns to the enemies-to-lovers dynamic that fans know and love from “Bridgerton.”
However, “You, Me & Tuscany” really thrives on the big screen, thanks to its stunning Italian scenery, and it’s perhaps most reminiscent of “Under the Tuscan Sun.” Anna marvels at Italy’s picturesque landscapes, quaint towns, delicious focaccia sandwiches, and charming independent restaurants. This film consistently leans into golden-hour panoramas, cypress-lined streets, and sun-drenched villas. The lush Tuscan setting is a major part of its appeal and a strong enough reason to watch it on the big screen.
Verdict: ‘You, Me and Tuscany’ is like a warm hug
Basically, “You, Me and Tuscany” is like a mash-up of all the rom-coms we already know and love. Even with a few predictable moments, this film is all about love of oneself, of family, of life, and of falling in love. Bailey and Page do have chemistry, and you genuinely want them to find each other. The family embraces Anna as one of their own, and in the process, we get a dreamy glimpse of Tuscany’s beauty — with a slice of yearning on the side.
However, as I mentioned before, “You, Me & Tuscany” could’ve easily worked as a Netflix movie. There’s not much here to distinguish it from other rom-coms, and it ultimately feels better suited to a cozy night in with a glass of wine. Still, rom-com fans will likely adore it for its wholehearted embrace of the genre, offering a generous serving of charm. Overall, the film is funny, romantic, and visually delightful, enough to make you want to pack a bag and fall in love in Tuscany yourself.
"You, Me and Tuscany" opens in U.S theaters on April 10
