Ciao America (2002): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 2002, Ciao America is a comedy, drama and romance film directed by Frank Ciota, running about 100 minutes.

What it’s about. Having recently earned his college degree, Lorenzo Primavera (Eddie Malavarca) leaves his home in Boston to travel to his family's ancestral homeland in Italy -- as was requested by his late grandfather. Upon arriving, Lorenzo is offered a short-term position as coach for an American-style football team by the team's manager, Giulio Fellini (Maurizio Nichetti). As the young American immerses himself in his new duties, he makes the acquaintance of Paola Angelini (Violante Placido) and the two begin a friendship that quickly blossoms into something more. In between spending time with Paola and working with the team, Lorenzo also begins investigating his own family's history and learns the reason for his grandfather's departure from Italy, as well as why his grandfather never returned to visit. As Lorenzo begins to forge an identity for himself in Italy -- not to mention strong romantic attachments to Paola -- he must eventually decide whether or not to return to the States.

Who’s in it. Ciao America stars Eddie Malavarca as Lorenzo Primavera, Maurizio Nichetti as Giulio Fellini, Violante Placido as Paola Angelini and Nathaniel Marston as Skip Cromwell, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 10.0/10, Ciao America sits among the best-reviewed titles in the catalogue.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Ciao America page.

If you liked it. Fans of Ciao America tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Parasite, Life Is Beautiful and Fight Club.