
GENRE: Drama
Bring out the tissues for Netflix’s newly-released romantic drama series From Scratch.
The eight-episode series follows the story of American artist Amy (Zoe Saldana) and Italian chef Lino (Eugenio Mastrandrea), who meet and fall in love in the romantic city of Florence, Italy.
From Scratch’s directors must be commended for capturing the beauty and romance of Florence.
After a brief period in which the couple manages a long-distance relationship, Lino joins Amy as they start a new life in the bustling city of Los Angeles ‘from scratch’.
The show follows the many highs and lows the couple has to face in their fledgling careers and the difficult family dynamics they have to deal with, coming from vastly different backgrounds.
The audience is captured from the first episode as Amy and Lino’s instant chemistry grows from friendship into true love.
However, their love for one another is seriously put to the test as they have to face and overcome the toughest of challenges.
The first few episodes feel like just another interracial romance, but episodes seven and eight flesh this trope into something more profound.
A box of tissues close by is recommended as the relatable and heartbreaking storyline will get the tears flowing.
The show covers themes such as love, grief, the importance of family, and the healing power of forgiveness.
At some points, the pace drags a bit but the visually stunning shots of the streets of Florence and the beautiful culinary dishes created by Lino, make up for this.
They also provide a welcome distraction for South African viewers cringing at the butchered pronunciation of Amahle throughout.
With the show’s relatable challenges and themes, as well as the complex characters, most viewers will find something to relate to.
From Scratch is available on Netflix.