Synopsis: Sometimes the wrong place is right where you need to be. From WILL PACKER, the blockbuster producer of Girls Trip, the Ride Along franchise, and ten movies that have opened No. 1 at the U.S. box office—including Night School, This Christmas and Think Like a Man—comes a delicious romantic comedy about one little lie, one large Italian villa, and two people getting lost in the sauce of love
If you’re a dreamer or want cool and amazing things but fail to take a chance on yourself, those wants and dreams will remain just that. Even if what you want to achieve feels small, you’ll never accomplish anything if you don’t take a risk and go for it. Bet on yourself. Believe in yourself. Take that leap. Go ahead and buy the plane ticket, ask that person out, demand that raise, post that song, apply for that job, join that gym, enter that contest, write that script, you can speculate and wonder all you want, but you’ll never have any wins if you don’t try.
“Stop borrowing other people’s lives, and start working on your own.”
In a world full of endless choices and eventual rewatches, your new comfort film has just arrived. Dipped in sunshine, drizzled with olive oil and laughter, and garnished with lush green hills and vineyards, Italy’s beauty is on full display. Directed by Kat Coiro, You, Me & Tuscany is a return to fun, feel-good films that inspire hope and jubilation while also laughing you out of your seat. Welcome to the rom-com revival. Featuring a simple yet insightful story, two scoops of eye candy, and nonstop excitement, this hilariously charming European escapade reintroduces joy to the theater-going experience. It’s unapologetically Black, unapologetically beautiful, and universally relatable.
Contrary to popular belief, this feature is not a remake of any kind. Though it may echo the feel of Under the Tuscan Sun or Eat, Pray, Love, You, Me & Tuscany—initially titled Italianna—tells its own story, painted with an entirely different brush and palette. It’s like comparing bruschetta and avocado toast; both taste great, but are very different despite some visual similarities. Reminiscent of hit romantic comedies of the past, with witty writing and detailed exposition, is a brightness and natural levity that foster a more-than-welcome warmth, and it’s mostly due to the performances. Normally, I would save the performance talk for the section below; however, the characters are what make great rom-coms not just stand out, but memorable. That said, the chemistry throughout this movie is incredibly genuine. Whether it’s the stolen glances and subtle flirting between Anna (Halle Bailey) and Michael (Regé-Jean Page), the sweet and innocent relationship she has with the taxi driver, Lorenzo (Marco Calvani), or her honest friendship with her ride-or-die bestie, Claire (Aziza Scott), the variety of characters and organic interactions, coupled with the hysterical comedic timing solidifies You, Me & Tuscany as a feel-good force.
“I always fall for the wrong girl.”
Built upon a snowballing lie, the narrative lures you into Tuscany’s idyllic charm and a budding yet secret romance, all while Anna digs herself into an ever-deeper hole. What’s worse, it’s not only one person her lie affects, but an entire family that expects a wedding, a long-awaited reunion, and loves her more with each passing day. Even with Claire’s blunt honesty and Lorenzo’s unwavering support, Anna abandons all logic, allowing the truth to be derailed at the last moment more than a few times. Stuck in the middle of a handsome man sandwich with her dreams within reach, she has vital decisions to make.
With a focus on family, food, and following your heart, You, Me & Tuscany has a little something for everyone. Between the laughs, location, and the very obvious Maserati ad, this Ryan Engle script is plagued with charisma and an abundance of optimism. Even as situations get thick and you’re waiting for the other shoe to drop, there’s a sense of positivity that radiates. The cinematography provides unspoken, intimate details that tell their own story. The wardrobe has a vibrant, clean aesthetic that complements skin tones and highlights features. Additionally, the score is lively and full of character, while the production design reflects the spirit of Italy’s rich culture. While the story lacks a little depth or nuance in certain instances, it doesn’t take away from the joy it’s providing. The Halle Bailey-led comedy is a fantastic communal experience that makes it okay to smile again, even if for only its runtime. Its rewatchability is high.
Pace & Pop
Starting quickly and fashionably, the film maintains a relatively quick pace for most of its runtime. Only slowing down for its romantic beats and some story development, it’s very easy to maintain focus with its consistent flow of twists and turns, even if you’re one of those people who just have to peek at your phone. What really pops for me is the joyous feeling that this film elicits. Not only do you feel transported back to a golden age of romantic comedies, the mid-90s to early 2000s, but the abundance of charm is smile-inducing.
Characters & Chemistry
Starring: Halle Bailey, Regé-Jean Page, Lorenzo de Moor, Isabella Ferrari, Aziza Scott, Marco Calvani and Nia Vardalos
To echo some of sentiments mentioned above, this cast is a delight. The chemistry is through the roof; they’re full of light and charisma. Halle Bailey proves she can light up any scene, delivering both magnetic screen presence and impressive comedic timing. Regé-Jean Page showcases his leading man ability as he effortlessly steals every scene. Aziza Scott is naturally funny, and even when her presence is only text messages, you read it in her voice and can’t help but laugh. The Italian family as a whole provides a luminous spark to the film. Specifically, the unpredictable Francesca, played by Stella Pecollo, and the suspicious Nonna Alessia, played by Stefania Casini. And let me not forget Marco Calvani, who portrays Lorenzo. He sets the cheerful tone early on and is a character you enjoy randomly popping up.
You, Me & Tuscany releases in theaters on April 10, 2026. Stay safe and stay woke.
Rated: PG-13 Runtime: 1h 45m Director: Kat Coiro Screenplay: Ryan Engle Story: Ryan Engle and Kristin Engle Producers: Will Packer, p.g.a., Johanna Byer, p.g.a. Executive Producers: Ryan Engle, Kristin Engle Production Designer: Elena Albanese Director of Photography: Danny Ruhlmann Costume Designer: Massimo Cantini Parrrini Score: John Debney Editors: Zene Baker, ace, Troy Takaki, ace
You, Me & Tuscany is a return to fun, feel-good films that inspire hope and jubilation while also laughing you out of your seat.
Senior Critic. Observing the human race since 1988.
