Netflix’s charming new romantic comedy is winning over audiences, though it may have slipped under your radar.
Originating from South Africa, Love and Wine features Bridgerton’s Masali Baduza as ambitious nursing trainee Amahle Philliso. As a working-class student, Amahle isn’t impressed by the privileged rich kids in her city.
Meanwhile, billionaire’s son Ovee Sityebi (Ntobeko Sishi) lacks career aspirations and spends his days partying. However, when his father insists he join the family business, Ovee is determined to earn his place without relying on his name.
So the ‘nepo baby’ switches lives with his less fortunate friend Nathi Maseko (Thandolwethu Zondi). The duo enrol for internships at a prestigious wine estate owned by Ovee’s father and adopt each other’s identities.
During this identity swap, Ovee encounters Amahle and quickly forms a bond with her while hiding his wealthy background, reports the Daily Record.
While the plot might ring a bell for seasoned romcom enthusiasts, this film provides a unique insight into South African class disparities, coupled with a delightful romance.
Despite being a Netflix production, the comedy hasn’t yet captured widespread attention. However, those who have watched it are full of praise.
TellTaleTV recently published an enthusiastic review, stating: « From the outstanding acting to the perfectly-timed humour to the compelling narrative, Love and Wine is a heart-warming, feel-good romcom. Even though the storyline in Love and Wine is not particularly original, the execution is still excellent. »
Meanwhile, everyday viewers have flocked to X, formerly Twitter, to express similar opinions. One gushed: « Just watched Love and Wine on Netflix… and wow.
« It’s been such a long time since a romantic movie made me smile like this. The cast truly delivered, the chemistry, the scenery, the vibes… everything was perfect. »
Another viewer concurred: « Love + Wine on Netflix is such a goooooodddd movie, » whilst a third admitted: « I don’t watch romantic movies… in fact, I hate romantic movies… But this movie .. ‘Love and Wine’ on Netflix, go watch it. It’s so mushy mushy. »
A fourth cinema-goer added: « Love and Wine on Netflix is so stinkin’ cute omg, » and a final enthusiast declared: « Just finished watching Love and Wine on Netflix and it got me giggling and kicking my feet. »
Bridgerton devotees will immediately recognise leading lady Baduza, who featured in series three of the period drama as Michaela Stirling.
She made her debut in the series finale as a gender-swapped interpretation of the book character Michael Stirling, with whom Francesca (Hannah Dodd) becomes romantically entangled. Although Baduza has so far had a minor part, her character is set to gain prominence as the show hinted at a lesbian romance during her initial encounter with lead character Francesca.
Love and Wine is streaming now on Netflix
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