'Once in a Lifetime,' a romantic drama with complex familial undertones, invites viewers into the layered life of Isabella and her turbulent relationships. Set against the backdrop of a serene countryside retreat, the film tackles themes of personal growth, strained family ties, and unexpected romance.

Family Tensions Set the Stage

The story unfolds with Isabella undergoing therapy sessions that reveal deep emotional fractures—especially in her past relationships. Her interactions with her therapist hint at recurring themes in her life, encapsulated in a symbolic dream on a boat. These dreams project her unresolved struggles with power dynamics in a relationship with an older, unpredictable yet captivating partner. While the therapy scenario showcases Isabella’s vulnerability, it takes an abrupt turn when she claims misconduct by the therapist—a claim dismissed by her stepfather, Frank. This initiates one of the central tensions of the film: Isabella's fraught relationship with Frank, who simultaneously exemplifies a stern father figure and a man struggling with his stepdaughter’s defiance.

Monte Berico Estate: A Place for Healing?

In an effort to mend their fractured bond, Frank, his wife Claudia, and Isabella decamp to the Monte Berico Estate, a countryside getaway. Managed by locals Vivian and Matt, the estate is depicted as a place of simplicity, self-sufficiency, and natural beauty. This setting provides a sharp contrast to Isabella’s modern lifestyle, marked by crowded clubs and constant digital connectivity.

The estate itself becomes a character in the film—a place where routines like yoga, working in the fields, and cooking meals offer pathways toward reflection and change. The idyllic backdrop creates both physical and emotional space for Isabella to confront her past and consider a different way of relating to those around her.

A Flirtation with Romance

At Monte Berico, Isabella forms a connection with Matt, whose down-to-earth demeanor contrasts sharply with the toxic relationships hinted at earlier in the film. Matt, an estate worker, draws Isabella out of her comfort zone, challenging her to engage fully with her surroundings. From mundane fieldwork tasks to shared dinners, their unfolding relationship adds a layer of romantic hope to Isabella’s journey of self-exploration.

Through Matt, the film explores how different environments and relationships can influence one's outlook on life. Matt himself is not free from hardship; his backstory, which includes taking in a former trapeze artist after her career-ending injury, underscores the theme of second chances—a recurring motif in the film.

The Complexity of Relationships

Much of the narrative hinges on the complexity of familial and interpersonal relationships. Claudia serves as a mediator between Isabella and Frank, often imploring Frank to try harder to connect with Isabella while simultaneously reassuring Isabella of her own worth. Frank, for his part, embodies a Cold War of parental authority versus deep-seated frustration, making him one of the more intricate characters in the film.

Isabella’s bold and brazen personality oscillates between rebellion and yearning for acceptance, making her an intriguing and multifaceted protagonist. Her initial resistance to Monte Berico and its simplicity gradually gives way to moments of clarity as her interactions with Matt and others ground her in the present moment.

A Story Rich with Subtext

The film does not shy away from exploring heavier themes such as power imbalances, trauma, and the impact of familial neglect. However, these mature topics are offset by light-hearted moments and the beauty of the estate’s surroundings. The compelling balance between its romance narrative and family drama reminds viewers that personal evolution often comes through confronting both external and internal struggles.

What the Film Gets Right

'Once in a Lifetime' excels in its atmospheric setting. The Monte Berico Estate is not merely a backdrop but a catalyst for character growth. Each scene, whether it’s Claudia and Frank discussing strategy to repair their relationship with Isabella or Isabella and Matt delicately flirting under the moonlight, feels intentional and layered.

The supporting characters, including Vivian and Fabio, help enrich the setting while providing alternative paths for reflection. Vivian’s story of loss and recovery gives substance to the estate’s reputation as a place for healing and reinvention.

Room for Improvement

Despite its compelling themes, the film leans heavily on archetypal characters and somewhat predictable plot points. While Isabella’s transformation is satisfying, the rapidity with which she integrates into life at Monte Berico feels idealized. Scenes such as her declaring that she will cook for Matt, previously a character defined by her disinterest in stability, sometimes strain plausibility.

Additionally, the film leaves certain character arcs and backstories unresolved, which might leave some viewers craving more closure or depth.

Final Thoughts

'Once in a Lifetime' is a story about second chances, set amid the tranquil yet challenging rhythms of life in the countryside. While its romance subplot provides warmth, the heart of the film lies in its exploration of complex family dynamics and Isabella’s gradual journey toward growth. For viewers seeking a blend of emotional drama and scenic escapes, this film offers both adventure and introspection.

Whether or not Isabella's family retreat achieves its intended goal, the experience reshapes how each character sees themselves and their relationships. 'Once in a Lifetime’ subtly encourages viewers to consider how places and people shape us—and how, in the right setting, even estranged relationships can begin to heal.