Amazon’s new dramedy, “Hotel Costiera,” set on the picturesque Italian Amalfi Coast, offers a light-hearted escape from the gloomy news and intense dramas that usually dominate television screens. This series, akin to the simplicity and elegance of the Italian dessert zabaglione, is breezy yet engaging.
The plot revolves around Daniel DeLuca, a former Marine played by Jesse Williams, who works as a fixer for a luxurious hotel. Located near Positano, the hotel is owned by Augusto (Tommaso Ragno) and managed by his daughter, Adele (Maria Chiara Giannetta). Daniel’s job involves resolving quirky incidents like retrieving kidnapped pets, finding lost spouses, and navigating Italian bureaucracy.
Supporting characters add to the ensemble, including notable portrayals by Jordan Alexandra as Genny, Sam Haygarth as aristocrat Tancredi, and Antonio Gerardi as trattoria owner Bigné. Together, they form a team that deals with amusingly low-stakes adventures throughout the series.
Though lacking in intense drama or intricate storylines, “Hotel Costiera” shines with its beautiful scenery and the chemistry among its cast members. The show is characterized by its gentle humor and playful plots, making it perfect for those seeking leisurely entertainment.
The overarching narrative involves the search for Augusto’s younger daughter, Alice, adding a layer of intrigue to the overarching lightness. However, the lack of dire consequences or dramatic tension keeps the series squarely in the realm of feel-good entertainment.
Direction by Adam Bernstein and Giacomo Martinelli highlights the stunning locations, but with a relaxed, almost casual filming style. While the visuals are delightful, the focus remains on charm and escapism rather than artistic cinematography.
In essence, “Hotel Costiera” is a charming, low-impact series offering a slice of sunny escapism. It’s not a must-watch, but it certainly provides a pleasant retreat into Italy’s sun-drenched vistas and light-hearted narratives.