In 1930s fascist Italy, adolescent Luca just lost his mother. His father, a callous businessman, sends him to be taken care of by British expatriate Mary Wallace. Mary and her cultured friends - including artist Arabella, young widow Elsa, and archaeologist Georgie - keep a watchful eye over the boy. But the women's cultivated lives take a dramatic turn when Allied forces declare war on Mussolini.
In 1930s Italy, a young American boy is raised by a spirited group of expatriate British and American women, known as the 'Scorpioni'. As Mussolini's fascist regime rises, the women face increasing danger and must band together to protect their way of life and the boy they all care for.
Tea with Mussolini was met with generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its performances, picturesque scenery, and nostalgic tone. Audiences also responded well to its charm and gentle humor, though some found the plot somewhat slight.
Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's charm, the performances of its veteran actresses, and its nostalgic depiction of Italy. Minor criticisms occasionally mentioned a lack of strong dramatic conflict.
The film is semi-autobiographical for director Franco Zeffirelli, who based the character of the young orphan Luca on himself and his own upbringing in Florence.
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