Synopsis

In 1935 Florence, young Luca is taken under the care of Mary Wallace and her circle of British expatriate friends, known locally as the Scorpioni. Their sheltered admiration for Italian culture and Mussolini is challenged when war brings internment, political repression, and personal danger. As Luca grows older, the women must overcome their differences and act together to protect those they love.

Factoids & Trivia

• The story is semi-autobiographical and draws on Franco Zeffirelli's childhood in Florence. The character of Luca reflects aspects of his youth and upbringing.

• The Scorpioni were inspired by real British women living in Florence during Zeffirelli's childhood. He later described some of them in his autobiography.

• Filming took place in Italy from June 1 to August 20, 1998. Locations included Florence, San Gimignano, Tuscany, Rome, and Cinecitta Studios.

• Several Florence landmarks appear in the film, including the English Cemetery and the Santa Maria Novella railway station. A villa near Siena was also used for the title residence.

• Angela Lansbury was originally offered the role of Mary Wallace, but withdrew when her husband became ill.

• Michael Williams, Judi Dench's real-life husband, made his final screen appearance in the film. He died shortly after production was completed.

• Maggie Smith received the 2000 BAFTA Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her performance.

• The film's period battle footage includes material taken from the 1977 war film *A Bridge Too Far*.