My first compliment is for the actors! Finally, a show that uses authentic foreign characters playing the foreign parts...perfect example are the couple that play Lino's parents. True Italians speaking southern Italian along with the with the mannerisms and sayings true to the region.... Having Italian parents myself, this so refreshing to see and hear this, so much better than using actors speaking with an exaggerated corny accent. On to the series itself, what a roller coaster of themes and emotions: laughs, tears, family and marriage drama, forgiveness, loss, reconnection, acceptance, romance, inter-racial relationships, heart break and devastation. It is a series I will recommend to others and think about for a long time to come.
Add a Review
-
Ginrosie29 October 2022
-
lasasala23 October 2022First, all the negative reviews seemed to only watched one episode.
This is NOT a Hallmark movie, by any stretch of the imagination.
Complex, profound and with wonderful depth, this series is about the deeply moving love story between a man, a woman and their complex families.
And I have to say that I love the way the series handles culture, race, grief and spirituality.
It is a lovely series and not just because of the beautiful settings. It is a lovely story, full of heart.
The series is based on Tembi Locke's memoir by same name.
Zoe Saldaña shines. Eugenio Mastrandrea is more than charming, lending real emotional weight. The direction is solid. The cinematography is lush. All the performances ring true. And the music is perfection.
Reese Witherspoon is one of the Executive Producers, so you can be assured of its quality.
Highly recommend. -
Felixhug23 October 2022Netflix is not particularly known for quality but rather quantity.
This limited series though is an absolute homerun.
Just beautiful in its humanity and EQ.
The closest comparison that comes to mind is this is us.
Hankerchief next to your tv control is a must though.
Its about love, family, cross cultural relationships, what home means, grief... about life in short.
It's written beautifully and meaningful. The production quality and acting is outstanding.
The wish is that more productions would take such deep care of the material at hand, so that we all can feel time well spent watching something on Netflix.
While its a drama for sure, its not a soap opera that lives from cheap mean backstabbing. There is a refreshing lack of cynical elements in favor of keen observations what it means to be human. -
tinapatel-6221026 October 2022The acting was incredible - simply incredible - each and every actor in this show was amazing and brought so much depth to their characters. I binged the entire mini-series in a few nights, and by the last moment, I was ugly crying. I haven't cried this hard in a long time. This was a love story that shows you how to love, compromise, appreciate, respect, communicate. I loved the cultural nuances, the dreams that had to change, the realities of life, the complexities of families and choices. This is the best love story I have seen since 'The Notebook.' My husband isn't a fan of romantic movies; however, he was glued to the story as much as I was and appreciated it. It's a must watch.
-
gmpompou_mbg30 October 2022I didn't have high expectations when I started watching this series, I was prepared to watch something light and carefree when the second episode hit me right in the heart. I completely fell in love with the characters, the story, the scenery, with everything. I found myself in tears while I don't ever cry at cinema or series anymore. The characters are very realistic and concerning the family relationships it's hard for someone not to find similarities with his own family. I haven't felt deeply moved by a story for a long long time and I am thankful of discovering this little precious diamond. Maybe Netflix has a lot more to give eventually.
-
hawkinsuhc8 November 2022This movie, series, almost perfect! It had a beginning, a middle and an end. It actually makes you believe in true love. I loved Lino and Amy's "story". I love how their commitment and love for one another was able to solidify their families. I loved how they never wavered no matter what was thrown at them. Even when you were sitting up there watching, and maybe about to cry or crying or just feeling so devastated for the characters, because this movie made you feel everything, they found a way to lighten it up so you could breathe just a little. So you could smile and suck up some of those tears for just a little bit. Had the movie remembered all the pictures she took, and had some kind of homage to their story at the end, it would have been perfect. Nevertheless, a lovely story.
-
wonderstone_entertainment24 October 2022Wrapped in life stories merged in love, tradition, hope and pain there are unforgettable characters within this series that move a soul with every line, every facial expression, and every heartfelt embrace. I consider Music to be the main character pressing all others into my heart and mind. Then, of course, there is Zoe and Eugenio, the obvious lovers that live out their days testing the strength of that love. They certainly made and impression on me. But, perhaps, the characters that grabbed my attention the most while viewing the series was Kellita Smith-an actress who, in my opinion, has finally found a platform worthy of her comedic timing, and then there is the ever versatile, undeniably talented Danielle Deadwyler--an actress who often transforms herself into drastically different roles, where she could easily be nearly any and every black woman or black man who's dead or alive. Without pause, I'm always anchored in the natural talent and brilliant line delivery of Keith David and Judith Scott, and in this series their performances did just what I expected; they kept me grounded in all that's good. Topped off with the talented Paride and Lucia, and directed by a Nzingha Stewart, this series is full of character that will never die.
-
elisa-grant26 October 2022Just knowing it was based on a true story made it touching from the get go.
As someone who has lived chunks of her life and loved deeply in Italy, this film hit home in so many ways for me.
It's a beautiful visual treat in the episodes where they are in Italy and the pacing gives one the feeling of small town Italy too.
A couple of episodes in you can start to feel something is "coming" and it takes its time getting to the crescendo of sadness. Then, once there, it sits in it a while before ending in a very American "happily ever after" kinda way which one is thankful for in this case.
Well acted, particularly by a beautifully spoken Zoe Saldana who is a delight to listen to in Italian.
Try to watch in decent chunks (I did it in 2 x sittings) so as to really get into the feeling it's conveying. Just have a box of tissues handy 💔 -
ladydoodlebop24 October 2022I don't want to post any spoilers, but I wonder what's with all the people giving it poor ratings for only bother to watch one or two episodes.
Like I said, it wasn't what I expected, but it was really beautifully done. It had me crying my way through it.
Beautifully done I suggest watching it for yourself and bring a box of Kleenex with you when you do. The only spoiler I can provide is that if you're expecting Emily in Paris, this is not it. And yes, there is a noticeable age difference between the two lead characters, but doesn't really matter in the stage? Would anybody say anything if it were an older man and a younger woman? -
aayatmahdi23 October 2022The first couple of episodes and also the trailer might make it seem like a basic movie with the same old story much like Netflix's recent "Love in the Villa" but it was nothing sort of that!
It is a truly amazing piece of art. Don't let the first couple of episodes turn you off; it just keeps getting better and the story gets more real as we go past episode 2. I specially loved to see more of Lino's family. None of those characters spoke one word of English but their acting and emotions encapsulated my heart forever and ever. I've never cried before watching any other movie in my life but after watching their acting, I just couldn't help myself. It is simply phenomenal.
Everyone should watch this with their families and loved ones (also kinda appropriate for kids) and I'm sure everyone will love it. I'm definitely going to give a second chance to the first few episodes!!
This is one of the finest Netflix productions of the year.
MUST WATCH! -
tildiz14912 March 2023Before watching "From Scratch" I did some research. Personally I didn´t regret doing that research. It prepared me for some things that were tragic. I would like to buy and read the book that this TV series is based on.
I think that the cast and crew did a fantastic job! "From Scratch" is well written, deeply moving and has great acting. And the scenery is very beautiful. I have traveled to Rome. Therefore I could, with joy, remember some things from that trip while watching "From Scratch". Pasta, the atmosphere, the Italian language and the architecture are four examples.
This TV series main characters Amy and Lino have, without any doubt, a lot of love, creativity, strength and empathy. They have truly inspired my writing and yes, I highly recommend watching "From Scratch". -
slrussell190822 October 2022From Scratch is a true story based off the book From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily and Finding Home by Tembi Locke. This movie is a warm captivating love story of cross-culturals set in a beautiful Sicilian countryside.
This romantic love story was full of emotions. With a mixture of family drama, love & support From Scratch will have you in your feelings so make sure you have lots of Kleenex. As a recent cancer survivor this story touched me personally. The two leads had amazing chemistry and the supporting cast were phenomenal. Enjoyed the music and the food I can't wait to try some of the recipes that are in the book. If you're looking for something to binge give it a watch you won't be disappointed. -
Lala-904123 October 2022This is a difficult review. Love Italy, know Florence and Sicily, as well as the US, love family dramas, good food and art and thought this would easily be a 10/10 for me. Yet I had to force myself through e1-4 (mid e4 got better) because it felt unreal, I couldn't connect with any character and I was bored to death. The only reason I didn't give up is because in THEORY, I should have loved it. Well, during Episodes 4/5-8 it all came together for me. Finally it seemed real, it made me smile, laugh, cry. Not going to spoil it, just saying that what happened was portrayed realistically and in the end love, in its many forms, is all that matters. I will watch this again and see how I feel about e1-4.
-
Becks2626 October 2022This is one of the best series I have watched in ages. Also the one I have cried the most to!
The story, the actors, the filming.... the Italian food, language, scenery..... Give this series a chance and you wont regret it! It will stick with you for a very long time. It is beautiful.
I have read the bad reviews and I am baffled! You can't judge this by watching 1 episode. You will see more of Firenze, and you will see more of Sicilia (alot more). How she met Lino? She met him in the first episode!
Like I said, the actors are amazing in this; especially Eugenio Mastrandea. I haven't seen him in anything before but he really was amazing in this. So was Zoe Saldana.... I felt their pain and cried through most of the episodes.
Anyone can relate to the heartbreak of what cancer does to people and you will feel emotionally drained, but it's worth it.
Watch it! -
Canada77722 October 2022This limited series is so refreshing with a African-American lead actress, an Italian lead actor, which was long overdue in mainstream productions by the USA/Netflix. There should be more lifelong or long lasting multi-ethnic marriages made into both TV and films portrayed like this! Beautiful job by all of the acting and crew staff -- all of it!! This limited series is romantic, amazing chemistry and affection, passionate, sexy, funny, moving, heartbreaking, heart aching (go through an entire box of tissues sobbing cathartic), restorative healing with resounding love, and love of blended multicultural family--well done!! Brava & bravo!! And the scene with Lino and his dad after many years making talking & starting to make peace in the hospital made me cry so hard and miss my late father even more- I cried and laughed so much at the end of that scene. Best and most moving mini series I've seen in years-- heads up #Emmys & #AcademyAwards- all around for this!!
-
zinnymarshall22 October 2022I don't know where to start from but I can say for sure that this series is a hell of emotions. The love story was romantic, the passion was felt and sadness was deep it was like it all happened to me in one seating. I practically bawled my eyes through the pathetic parts. Lino's and Amy's love story is highly relatable and the series of trials the passed through to be where they are is highly commendable. I for one will say that the writers of this movie did a hell of a job and they actors brought it to life by nailing everything on point, it goes to show that family is everything in every situation. They are there to be a backbone when needed. This is a series worth watching words can't describe ,best believe that it embodies everything you can think of. A Movie Never To Be Forgotten.
-
kibuje7910 March 2023Heart wrenching. Not what I expected. I absolutely loved it. The acting and the style was maybe lacking a bit in the first episodes, but oh my God. OMG. It became more and more real life with each episode. It kinda eased its way from cheesy love story to real life and real problems.
I loved all the Italian that was spoken. And the complex family dynamics.
Honestly I watched it in one sitting. All eight episodes until 5 in the morning. I couldn't stop.
I have no personal history with the specific themes displayed but it managed to open me up to some deep layers of sorrow stored deep down. It was almost cathartic for me to watch. I cried my eyes out. Both personal tears and tears for the story. For me it had the right mix of sweet love and real life.
Only complaint is how dark the story actually was. My positive and romantic heart hoped for a more Disney-like ending. -
sofia-nk28 November 2022Do me a favor and WATCH IT! Believe when I say you won't regret it. The last time that I cried watching something related to entertainment was when Hatchi, the movie, came out. Now this series, as well as the book, it gave me ALL the feels. I read the original book (which is an amazing story to read if you're a bookworm), and you can see the essence of the original story take place perfectly here; from the representation of Italian culture to what it means to be loved by someone. Loved the series as much as the book. This series, unlike many other shows and movies, it shows you what it means to be truly loved by your partner; it shows you that it means constant support & respect from one another in one's dreams. It means that where there is peace & happiness, there's true love. There needs to be more visual stories like this.
-
KATO-SUBZERO24 October 2022Sunday 23 October 2022: I am a strong supporter of All Interracial Love stories between men and women and this one starring pretty and talented African Dominican Latina actress, Zoe Saldaña in the role of Amy is excellent from start to finish. This story also sort of mirrors Zoe's real life. Her husband Marco Perego is Italian and grew up in Italy, so in hearing her speak basic Italian probably came easy for her.
The entire cast is great, Danielle Deadwyler who can currently be seen as the mother in the film "Till" as sister, Nora is great. Keith David as her dad is great and his ex-wife played by, Kellita Smith from the Bernie Mac show is a bitter uptight woman is also good and Italian actor, Eugenio Mastrandrea as Lino. I did not like the racist comment said by Kellita at the dinner table during Thanksgiving dinner to her daughter about wanting only brown skin grandchildren. Otherwise, a ten on the scale, two thumbs up. -
lauragarciamarketing23 October 2022Zoe & Eugenio's interpretation was amazing. My husband and I were watching it together. We are a mix couple from two different cultures. This show made us feel a lot of emotions. It was incredibly well done and they couldn't pick better actors. Their love story feels so real. It tells you that love can endure the hardest things in life. I love how supportive both of their family's are. I love how they support each other and how they decide not to quit on each other's even when things got tough. I love how her sister makes her laugh in the toughest moments of her life. I love the cultural differences that they embrace together. We laughed, we cried, and we remembered that we are really grateful that God put us together. Thank you for this amazing show. I 100% recommend it!!
-
gdnyt1222 October 2022For all the naysayers leaving "unrealistic" reviews:: folks this is real life. Obviously not familiar with the background, viewers saying that love and life doesn't happen this way; well they need to get out more. And as for the age difference in the actors, why is that not art imitating life. Scenery is wonderful and the food looks amazing, from the books recipes I've tried incorporating fennel and garlic in all my dishes ! Any series based on true events or memoirs are my Achilles heel, there's no substitute for reality.
Thanks for giving us a genuine love story infused with beautiful background and delicious food. -
dbuckshnis24 October 2022It's so fascinating this dichotomy of the marriage of an America verses a foreigner. Gently but also in your face as the story handles the big "Texan and black" aspect with the lovely Sicilian.
The Thanksgiving scene is great snd sets the stage as to the difference in culture and ethnicity. It tackles so many stereotypes.
Furthermore, the sadness of the Italian not accepting the American and the American divorce status is so key to understanding European vs American standards of marriage. Then the cancer and then the health news and death .... Etc it's a bit predictable
The sets are fabulous, especially the scenes in Italy and the beautiful villas displayed.
Characters are great and it's well worth watching. -
freshersmile27 October 2022This show was truly beautiful, tore me to pieces with it's ending but also made it very clear how special life is. The cast is just out of this world, from Zoe to Eugenio, to all the family they all did such a good job playing their roles and did so much to pull you into this love story. The story was fantastic and you rooted for their success, with his restaurant and her artwork but as life always always does, throws a curve ball and diminishes that dream. However far from being somber and depressing, it showed how beautiful life can be and how much it needs to be appreciated. I loved this show, even with it's tragic ending. You can't help seeing the beauty in the precious time we have in this world.
I really want to see this nominated for awards. -
Pistol21916 July 2023Zoe Saldanis Is an amazing beautiful actress that puts so much of herself in every performance, This show in particular I believe she shed every ounce of her soul into. And Eugenio is a new actor to me after this and he was a perfect co captain to Zoe. There relationship couldn't have been any more authentic.
There is so much beauty in the entire show. I was not expecting to have seen or felt so many emotions. This hit home for me on so many levels, so many different sized waves 🌊 that I just kept riding through each and every episode.
Showing how much family has so many flaws, fights, feeling of being left or forgotten. But this shows how family can find a way back to one another and become stronger then ever.
Every actor played their best roll to compliment one another. From the sister Zoe who was such a great sister to Ami. Idalia at all ages was a perfect addition the the hole left in their hearts.
There is zero excuse or reason to give this series less then 10 stars.
For everyone going through battles in life especially with family. Just stay close and keep faith in the Lord for he will take away your pain and lead you to paradise to see your loved ones and wait for others.