Overview
Who hasn't dreamed at least once of running off to a foreign country and starting a new life? That's exactly what Frances (Diane Lane) does in UNDER THE TUSCAN SUN, directed by Audrey Wells (GUINEVERE). Traveling in Tuscany after a heart-wrenching divorce, Frances surprises herself by making an offer on a rundown villa--the biggest impulse purchase of her life. With the help of a warmhearted, smitten real estate agent and a local contractor with a team of Polish workers, her 300-year-old house is slowly transformed into a home. Along the way, she encounters a larger-than-life British ex-patriot, kind and generous neighbors, and a charming Italian man or two. Essentially, the film is an affirmation that good things can happen if one lets them--and that sometimes what seems like a terrible mistake or a crazy idea is a really a blessing. Lane is completely engaging as Frances, second-guessing her speedy purchase, looking for love, and rediscovering herself. Based on the book by Frances Mayes, the film was shot on location in Rome, Florence, Positano, and Cortona in Italy. The breathtaking scenery is sure to have viewers saving their pennies for next year's vacation--or their Tuscan dream house.
Awards:
Main Cast & Crew:
Audrey Wells - Director
Diane Lane
Raoul Bova
Sandra Oh
Lindsay Duncan
Pawel Szadja
Vincenzo Ricotta
Dan Bucatinsky
Details
- Format: DVD (Widescreen)
- Run Time: 113
- Color Format: Color
- UPC: 786936238679
- Genre: Romance
- Rating: PG-13 (MPAA) (sexual content and language)
- Release Date: February 2004

Movie Reviews
Notes:
Theatrical Release: September 26, 2003
Reviews:
"...Ms. Wells keeps the movie going with a steady, commanding hand..." - 09/26/2003 New York Times, p.E15
"...A fun movie to sit through....And the movie is all Lane, make no mistake..." - 09/26/2003 USA Today, p.8E
"...A spellbinding display of emotional transparency..." - 09/22/2003 Variety, p.23
"Lane glows with good cheer and we enjoy the escapism." - 01/30/2004 Chicago Sun-Times, p.11
"[T]he perfect tonic for those who have not yet seen how a special place can nurture spiritual transformation." - 05/01/2004 Spirituality & Health, pp.72-3
