Despite the cast, this isn't a Merchant/Ivory production. Franco Zeffirelli's autobiographical film of his youth spent amongst the English "Scorpioni" in Florence before and during WWII is a very heartfelt piece of work. In the hands of three British ex-pats (Maggie Smith, Judi Dench, and Joan Plowright), young "Luca" is raised to appreciate art and life...and to tolerate A LOT! Also in the mix is Cher, as an American showgirl/benefactor with the exhaustive name of Elsa Morganthal Strauss-Armistan, and Lily Tomlin as a free-spirited archaeologist. The acting by all is exceptional, with Plowright a real standout as the Earth mother of the group. Cher has the longest name, but the briefest role. It does, however, turn out to be very pivotal. Dench is very funny as a ditsy culture vulture and Smith is perfect as the uptight (self appointed) leader of the den. Zeffirelli's script (co-written by John Mortimer) is funny (is there really a tea with Il Duce?), suspenseful, and even a little scary. This is the director's finest film in years. The great cinematography is by David Watkins.
Review of Tea with Mussolini
