Tea with Mussolini
Official MGM Site

Starring: Cher, Judi Dench, Joan Plowright, Maggie Smith,
Lily Tomlin, Baird Wallace
Category: Drama
Rating: PG
Released: 1999
Available for rental.

"A story of civil disobedience." Tea with Mussolini is also a true tale from Franco Zeffirelli's autobiography. Beginning in pre-WWII Florence, Italy, this movie moves with the style and grace of its' notable actresses. The movie's worth the price of rental alone to see Plowright, Dench, and Smith on the screen together.

You'll get an idea of the time before you understand the characters, who develop as the movie progresses. Plowright (Enchanted April) - who might also be known as Lady Olivier, married to the actor from 1961 until his death in 1989 - plays Mary Wallace, just as sweet as she is strong. Dench (Shakespeare in Love, A Room With a View) plays an eccentric art-restorer. And Smith (A Room With A View, Hook) plays Hester, widow of a former British ambassador.

These British ex-patriates live in Florence, have tea at the local museum, and revel in a past that's about to explode in war. Plowright's character takes on a young boy who has been denied by his father as he was born out of wedlock, to help turn him into an English gentleman.


The story follows the boy Luca when, played by Baird Wallace, at 17 he discovers an autonomy provided by Cher's portrayal of Elsa - a brash, independent American art-collector of means. Lily Tomlin plays the archaeologist Georgie, who is often the voice of reason. When war hits, Luca finds himself in a position to return the favor to his benefactress, and to all the women who've softly influenced his life.


It's been a long time since we've had to opportunity to see such a thoughtful, beautiful film. This is way movie-making used to be - haunting, funny, and moving, without all the hype.

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