Name: Made in Italy
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Released: 2020-07-09T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Liam Neeson, Micheál Richardson, Valeria Bilello, Lindsay Duncan, Marco Quaglia

The crumbling villa in Tuscany stands as the true star of Made in Italy (2020), its sun-drenched walls and overgrown gardens a stark contrast to the fractured relationship between artist Robert (Liam Neeson) and his estranged son Jack (Micheál Richardson). Director James D’Arcy’s film aims for a poignant father-son dramedy, but the execution falls short of the emotional depth it promises.

The premise is simple: after inheriting a dilapidated Italian villa from his late wife, Robert travels to Tuscany with Jack to sell the property. What follows is a predictable journey of bonding and reconciliation, set against the backdrop of Italy’s picturesque landscapes. The film leans heavily on its setting, with sweeping shots of rolling hills and charming villages serving as a visual counterpoint to the characters’ inner turmoil.

Where Made in Italy succeeds is in its ability to capture the allure of Tuscany. The cinematography is undeniably beautiful, with every frame showcasing the region’s natural beauty and architectural charm. The film also benefits from strong supporting performances, particularly from Valeria Bilello as Natalia, a local woman who becomes entangled in Robert and Jack’s story.

However, the film’s strengths are overshadowed by its numerous shortcomings. The script is riddled with clichés and predictable plot points, from the inevitable romantic subplot to the forced moments of father-son bonding. Liam Neeson’s performance, while not outright terrible, feels phoned in at times, as if he’s simply going through the motions. His chemistry with Richardson lacks the necessary spark to make their reconciliation feel earned.

The dialogue is another major stumbling block. Many lines feel unnatural and stilted, detracting from the emotional weight of key scenes. The soundtrack, too, is a missed opportunity. Instead of enhancing the film’s emotional beats, it often feels intrusive and out of place.

Ultimately, Made in Italy is a missed opportunity. Despite its beautiful setting and strong supporting cast, the film is let down by a lackluster script, uninspired performances, and a reliance on clichés.