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Review

Based on a chapter from director Zeffirelli's autobiography, this old-fashioned, nostalgic memory piece lacks a certain cinematic flourish, but makes up for it with both a great cast in great form and a beguiling coming-of-age story. In mid-1930s Florence, young, motherless Luca is raised by a group of elderly English expatriate women, known as "the Scarpioni" (for their biting wit). Each instills in Luca a love for the arts, theatre and life. However, their worlds change when Fascism grips Italy -- sending all on different roads but never separated in spirit. Zeffirelli pays great respect to these women with his heartfelt tale, and they have been marvelously brought to life by a once-in-a-lifetime ensemble. What a pleasure to watch these reigning grandes dames of England's theatre and film: the acerbic Smith, the flighty Dench, the motherly Plowright; even Cher as an American heiress and Tomlin as a lesbian archaeologist are on par. It’s their conviction that overcomes the sometimes dramatically shortchanged story to produce a wistful recollection that is graced with heart, wit and admiration.