REVIEW: “Solo Mio” (2026)

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Like all movie genres, romantic comedies have had their share of successes and failures. However, rom-coms often rely too heavily on predictable formulas, making many feel stale and unoriginal. That’s what makes “Solo Mio” so refreshing. This film, set in the beautiful landscapes of Rome and Tuscany, is heartwarming, features characters you’ll genuinely like, is genuinely funny, and feels more thoughtful and grown-up than most romantic comedies these days.

Let me be clear, “Solo Mio” isn’t quite as iconic as “Roman Holiday.” However, like that classic film, it shares a similar delightful energy and is beautifully set in Italy. The scenery is stunning without overshadowing the story. What really stands out is the script – it’s funny, heartfelt, and moving. But the movie truly shines thanks to the wonderful performances by Kevin James and Nicole Grimaudo.

This film comes from the Kinnane Brothers, a filmmaking group based in Rhode Island. Brothers Charles and Daniel co-directed, working from a script penned by their siblings, Patrick and John. Kevin James not only stars in the movie but also contributed to the screenplay. In a departure from his typically comedic roles, James delivers a genuinely touching and heartfelt performance – some of the best work of his career.

James plays Matt Taylor, a fourth-grade art teacher who is happily engaged to Heather (Julie Ann Emery). They’re planning a beautiful wedding in Rome, followed by a luxurious honeymoon in Italy. However, their wedding day takes a shocking turn when Heather leaves Matt at the altar. Devastated, Matt attempts to cancel their honeymoon, but discovers it’s already paid for and nonrefundable. He decides to go to Rome alone anyway, hoping Heather might change her mind and join him.

Matt, struggling with sadness, encounters two overly curious and meddling couples during his hotel stay, and they decide it’s their mission to cheer him up – whether he wants them to or not. There’s Julian (Kim Coates), celebrating his third marriage with Meghan (Allyson Hannigan), who means well but is a bit pushy. And then there’s Neil (Jonathan Roumie), who surprisingly just married his therapist, Donna (Julee Cerda).

The mismatched couples all mean well, but things start to change for Matt when he visits a coffee shop. He meets Gia, a vibrant barista played by Nicole Grimaudo, who quickly realizes he’s feeling down. Gia’s bubbly personality and natural charm attract Matt, though he doesn’t dwell on it, hoping his wife, Heather, will reconsider. He also questions whether someone his age can realistically start over with a new relationship.

As Matt and Gia repeatedly cross paths, a romantic connection develops between them. While this storyline is familiar, the actors handle it surprisingly well. Their relationship feels genuinely sweet and playful without being overly sentimental or childish. It’s a mature connection between believable characters that viewers will genuinely root for. Gia’s energy perfectly complements Matt’s subdued nature, and the natural chemistry between the actors, James and Grimaudo, makes their scenes truly come alive.

Like most romantic comedies, this film introduces conflict that could derail the central love story. Here, that conflict comes in the form of secrets kept by both main characters. However, the movie handles these secrets in a surprisingly fresh and realistic way. It’s another pleasant surprise from a film that honestly portrays relationships – how they can end, and how new ones can start, at any point in life.

“Solo Mio” isn’t groundbreaking for the romantic comedy genre, but it proves the genre still has potential. While it follows a familiar romcom formula, it feels fresh because it tells a unique story instead of copying others. The performances are excellent – James is at their best, and Grimaudo is a new talent to watch. Ultimately, everything comes together nicely, making for a charming, uplifting, and thoroughly enjoyable film.

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2026-02-05 18:58