Luca 2

Luca 2 is an upcoming animated Disney/Pixar film that is a sequel to the 2021 Pixar film Luca. It is set one year after the events of the first film. It stars some of the original cast from the first film reprising their roles; including Jacob Tremblay, Jack Dylan Grazer, and Emma Berman. It will be released on June 27, 2023.

Synopsis
It has been a year since the events of Luca, and our underdogs have returned. Giulia's mother is visiting Portorosso to meet Alberto, her stepson, and Luca's parents. But when Massimo is around, chaos ensues. Now it is up to Luca to help Giulia reunite her parents; and find out why they divorced. And as an old friend from the United States teaches our heroes more about the world and helps them learn new things, they will find out family is important as they try to rescue one.

Plot
We begin with Luca and his friends on a machine to the future, one year after the events of Luca. In the night sky, a plane piloted by Roger, an old American friend of Giulia Marcovaldo is heading back to Portorosso after his last visit five years ago. He calculates how far away he is and how many days it's going to take to get there. He looks at a picture of Giulia when she was young. He tells her that he will get there soon, kisses her, and bids her good night.

Several miles away, in Genoa, school has let out. Luca Paguro and Giulia are preparing to head back to Portorosso for the summer. They head to the train station where Giulia's mother, Lisa, kisses her daughter and tells them that she will be visiting Portorosso this summer to meet Luca's friend, Alberto Scorfano (who is her stepson), and Luca's parents hoping to get to know them. She waves goodbye to Luca and Giulia as they board the train. The train leaves and heads on its way to Portorosso. Onboard, Luca and Giulia look back at Genoa. Luca tells her that he had a wonderful time seeing more of the world. He tells her that this summer would be better than the last and it will be amazing to be back with Alberto since he missed him so much. Giulia agrees and tells him that they will make the best of it.

Meanwhile, at the train station in Portorosso, Alberto, Luca's family, and Giulia's father, Massimo wait for them to arrive. After a couple of hours, Alberto gets bored, and tells them it might take forever. Massimo tells him that they will come sooner or later. A couple of minutes, Alberto notices something in the distance. In the tunnel, lights are seen. The train arrives and slows to a stop at the station, as Alberto cheers. Luca and Giulia come out of the train. Luca notices Alberto and they run to each other. They hug. Alberto tells Luca he missed him and asks him to tell him everything. They all head back to Giulia's home. At the house, Luca notices some new things. Alberto tells him that he added some touches to the treehouse. He added some blankets and placed some lanterns. He also shows him a Vespa that he got through chore money. Luca says that is awesome and that they should go around town on it some time.

That night, Luca and his family and friends have dinner at Giulia's place. They talk about what will be happening this summer such as the Portorosso Cup and the fact that Luca's birthday is coming up. He will be turning 14. Then Giulia mentions that her mother will be coming to Portorosso to meet Alberto and Luca's parents. Suddenly, Massimo excuses himself and runs off. Luca asks Giulia what just happened. She tells him that they have been divorced since she was little. He asks her if they considered to be married again. She tells him that they haven't due to something that happened several years ago that caused them to divorce. He tells her that it may happen someday and that they will put aside the past and look forward to the future.

Over the next couple of days, they have several adventures including a couple of excursions to Isola del Mare, where Alberto lived for several years; and underwater visiting Luca's home. They even go out on Alberto's Vespa cruising around town. Several days later, as they have some fun, Luca suddenly hears something. It is the sound of an engine of a plane. Giulia says that's not just any plane. Suddenly, a plane emerges out of the mountains behind Portorosso. It flies over the town leaving colored smoke in the style of the Italian flag behind. The whole town notices the fly-by and cheer. The plane flies high leaving smoke writing the words "Ciao, Portorosso! I'm Back!!" Luca is puzzled by this and asks Giulia what is happening. She tells him it is one of his greetings. Luca asks who. She tells him he'll know soon enough. The plane makes some loops and lands on the water. The town raises the Italian flag as the pilot of the plane comes out. The Italian national anthem plays. Luca, knowing the words to the anthem, sings. Once he finishes, the town applauds. The pilot takes off his helmet and scarf. It is Roger. He speaks to the town saying he is back and notices changes in the town such as the fountain. The fountain is changed from a fisherman grasping a sea monster by the throat, to the statues of Luca and Alberto both human from the waist up and sea monster from the waist down. He is surprised by the changes; knowing that he hoped the town would change. He announces that soon enough the Americans will put a man on the moon; expected to happen in a month or two. The town roared with wild excitement until Massimo announced that the colosseum will put everyone to be eaten by wild animals! The town screams in horror and runs away to their business! Roger then notices Giulia and they run to each other and hug. Roger looks at her saying that it is so good to see her again. He tells her that she is just like her mother and that she has her mother's hair color and her eyes. He sees Massimo and they hug. He also notices some new faces. He introduces himself to Luca and Alberto, saying his name is Roger Patterson. Luca introduces himself. Roger tells him that is a pleasure to meet him and calls him "hermit crab" (since Luca's last name, Paguro, is Italian for "hermit crab"). He meets Alberto and suddenly he notices something. He pulls out a picture of Alberto's family, the Scorfano's. He notices the boy in the photo and his hair. He asks him if he is Alberto Scorfano. Alberto replies he is. Roger then shakes his hand and says it is wonderful to meet him at last. Alberto asks him what he is talking about. He tells him that he knew his father and he was close friends with him. He asks him where he is. Alberto tells him he left two years ago. He tells him that he knew his father would leave. He tells him that they should enter the house and talk about it. They all go into the house.

In the house, he tells Alberto his mother left for Sicily several years ago, and his father planned to go there and be with her. He wanted Alberto to come with him. But the love for his wife got the best of him. And so he left. Roger tells him that his father wrote to him a year ago saying they were in Sicily having the best time ever. He wrote that he and Alberto's mother planned to head back to Portorosso as soon as possible; and Roger never got another letter from him. Alberto tells him that he hopes they come home soon, because he misses them so bad and that he still has his stepfather, Massimo to take care of him. Roger is grateful that he has somebody to take care of Alberto while his parents are away. During the evening, they talk about what happened during the past several years. Luca tells Roger about his adventures from the previous year; about how he met Alberto, learned more about the world, how he won the Portorosso Cup with the help of his friends, how the town changed its perspective of sea monsters and the journey to the school in Genoa. Roger is stunned that they won the Portorosso Cup, which the town bully Ercole Visconti won 5 years in a row. He tells them about how when he was a young boy, he was a kind-tender, loving soul. During one of his visits, he asked Ercole what he wanted to be in life. He told Roger he wanted to be a professional wrestler and boxer. But over the years, he became reckless, mean, and a big bragger. Roger guessed it was probably due to his mean and psychotic uncle Rico. Ever since his last visit, he had suspicions about Ercole and wondered if he would change. They stop talking and retire to bed.

The next day, Roger invites Luca, Alberto, and Giulia to his place. They arrive at his place which also has a restaurant section named Casa del Roger. He tells them that this place was very popular and he opened it when he was around. He shows them to a table where Giulia and Massimo sat all the time. They sit down and Roger goes in the back and makes 3 bowls of a dish which is very popular and titled Giulia's Macaroni And Cheese Salad named in her honor. He serves it to them and tells them that every time he visited Portorosso, he always gave Massimo and Giulia several boxes of mac and cheese from America. Luca eats it, and says it is really good, and tells him he's a wonderful cook. Roger thanks him. After they are done eating, he shows them around the house. He takes them to a room considered to be a private theater. In there, he shows them The Love Bug (which he was given a reel just before it comes out in theaters), and a copy of the 2001 remake film The Lost World. Luca is fascinated by these films; and dreams of the adventures in both films, such as coming face to face with dinosaurs.

They head back to Giulia's home and at the front door is Lisa, Giulia's mother. Lisa and Giulia hug each other. She finally gets to meet her stepson, Alberto. They all go into the house and as they get in, Massimo notices and stares at her, then leaves. Alberto tells his stepmother what is going on, and she tells him that now is not the time. Luca suddenly realizes to himself, that it is their divorce and they are not seeing each other. He keeps it to himself. That night, Lisa and Massimo have dinner at different times hoping to avoid each other. While looking at the stars, Luca wonders if they will ever come back together and hopes that they do.

The next day, Luca is showing Lisa around town. She points out her old childhood home along the way. They take a look at it. She starts talking and remiscencing about her past, telling him about when she was her age, she always thought if there was life besides marine life. Apparently, she was right. Sea monsters did exist; and they had a different point of view on humans. They head back. Along the way, they notice Ercole going by on his Vespa. Suddenly he stops. He comes over to Luca. He tells him that he still has his doubts about him. Lisa then protects him telling him that Luca is a wonderful boy; and that no matter what he is, he will still be loved by his friends and family. Ercole scoffs, telling her they'll see. He leaves.

A couple of days later, everybody is celebrating Luca's birthday. His family is so proud of him. Alberto grabs a cup of grape juice and offers a toast to him, saying that he would be nowhere if it weren't for him. They toast him. Then it's on to birthday presents. Giulia and Lisa give him a painting set. He thanks them saying he loves it. Then Alberto and Massimo give him theirs. They head outside. Right in front of the house, Alberto tells him to close his eyes and he guides him. He tells him to open them. He looks and it is a Vespa. He thanks them both. Alberto tells him that he and Massimo had enough money to buy it for him from fishing sales. He walks to it and gets on it. Roger pulls out a camera and takes a picture of him on it. Then it is time for Roger and his family to give him their presents. Roger tells him to shut his eyes again. He leads him telling him that he and his parents gave him this one. He tells him to open them. Luca is surprised. He asks him what it is. He tells Luca it is a BMW Isetta. He tells him that 2 years from now he will be 16. Around that time, most people in America get their driver's license. He decided to get it for him since he watched The Love Bug and enjoyed seeing Herbie. His parents agreed with him saying that he could take it out on errands for his family. He gives him the keys and tells him there are three; one for the door, one for access to the engine, and one for the ignition. He labeled them. He shows him how to open the door. Luca enters inside the automobile and closes the door. He opens the window, holding his hand on the steering wheel and with his head sticking out the window. Roger takes a picture of him. He tells him that he can teach him how to drive the Isetta. He enters the automobile and sits next to him. He hands a satchel that his father had in the Second World War. The initials on the bag read L.P. He tells him that his father's name was Lewis Patterson. Now it belongs to Luca; since he shares the same initials. He tells him that everything he needs is inside. He looks inside the satchel and finds a newsboy cap. Roger tells him that hat was in his family for 3 generations and that he is passing it onto him. Luca puts it on. Roger says that he is looking sharp in that cap. He shows what else is in the satchel including books for school, binoculars, a wallet, a journal and other things. He puts the stuff back in the satchel.

Luca is ready to learn how to drive the Isetta. Roger shows him where the ignition is. He turns it on. He shows him a switch in the back which is the fuel valve which is on and that it needs to turned off when he is not using it, on when he is, and reserve when he is out of gas, so that he can get to the nearest gas station. He shows him how to shift and how to use the parking brake. He shows him where the brake and the accelerator is. Soon enough, Luca learns pretty fast and gets better at driving it. Roger is impressed and says he is a fast learner. He tells him that he learned about as fast as Giulia when he taught her. Luca tells him that he didn't know that Giulia learned how to drive one of these things. Roger tells him that he taught her somewhere during his last visit. He tells him that Giulia was amazed by his Isetta collection and she wanted to know how to drive one of them. So Roger taught her and she learned pretty fast. She became really good at it. Afterwards, he talked to Massimo if she could have one. And he told him that he enjoyed her on a bicycle. So she didn't get one. But she told Roger she wanted to get a Fiat 500 so that when her parents got back together again, she would take them out and chauffeur them on their honeymoon. Apparently, they never got back together, and they are still divorced. Luca also finds out that Alberto has an apprenticeship as a mechanic for Mr. Santorini. So he will be Luca's mechanic to work on the Isetta and the Vespa. He learns some facts about the Isetta, such as the fact that the engine is that of a motorcycle. They head back to the house, he parks the Isetta right in front of the house. They get out. He thanks Roger and his family for the gifts.

The next day, Luca is doing some errands for his family such as getting fish for dinner. As he is heading back home, Giulia visits him and tells him that she wants to have a conversation. He agrees. He brings her inside the Isetta. She tells him that she wants her parents back together so bad. She can't do it alone, so she tells him to help her get them back. He agrees to this, saying that Massimo and Lisa are his friends and he would be willing to do anything for them. She tells him that what they are going to do is to recreate their first date and that it will be Saturday night. They plan to do it as soon as possible.

That Saturday night, they secretly send messages to both Massimo and Lisa to head to the Ristorante di Fiori for dinner at Table 28. They head to the restaurant and when they check in, they don't realize that they are at the same table. They sit down, and both Lisa and Massimo are surprised to see each other. After a few minutes, they start talking. They tell each other about what happened over the years. Lisa talks about her life in Genoa. She enjoyed it there after they divorced. Massimo tells her about fishing and how he is holding up. She tells him why she even bothered to visit with Massimo around. She tells him that it was really difficult to take care of the family. She struggled with taking care of the house while he was out fishing to help the family have a place to live and to pay taxes. She struggled under the pressures of being a housewife. He tells her that she didn't ask him if she needed someone to help her. She tells him that she could do it on her own. He says to her that she did need someone, but she didn't say anything. She tells her that was the reason she divorced. She was afraid to tell him. She leaves. He calls to her to come back and they can talk this over. She scoffs, saying that would likely happen. He sighs. In the distance, Luca and Giulia were listening to their conversation. He is shocked by the revelation that was the reason they divorced. She tells him that she was around and she could've helped. She doesn't know what to do, and says that they would have to call off the plan and it would take a long time in order to get her parents back together. He tells her that he will let her know when an opportunity rises. She agrees. They head home.

A couple days later, Alberto is going around on his Vespa with Luca. Suddenly, he notices someone. It is a girl with long black hair, blue eyes, and a yellow dress. She turns around and notices him. They stare at each other. He starts to lose his grip, and begins to faint. He falls off. She runs over to him, surprised. She picks him up. He wakes up. He is startled by her appearance. Luca asks him what is going on. He tells him that he has seen her a couple of times but never got a chance to meet her. She introduces herself as Florence Castiglione. She tells him that she is a close friend of Giulia; and they have been friends since they were very young. He tells her that her name, Florence, is a wonderful name. They fall in love and he asks if she wants to have some gelato and invites her on the Vespa. Luca smiles, knowing that his friend now has a love interest. He tells him that he can go off and he'll see him later. Alberto takes off with Florence on the Vespa. He takes her around town. They stop at a gelato place. He orders 2 cups of gelato. They sit down at a table. He starts talking to her. He tells her about Massimo and how he enjoys helping him out. She tells her that he is a great guy and that he is lucky to have him. They talk to each other about their interests and spend some time looking out over the water. He shows her, pointing at Isola del Mare, where he grew up. He tells her about his parents and that they left him a couple of years ago. She tells him that it would be nice to head over to the island. He tells her that he can arrange that. They head back to his place.

That night, Roger invites Luca and his family and friends to spend the night at his place. They have dinner. During dinner, Alberto tells them about Florence, saying that she is a wonderful girl and they have been hanging out. Giulia tells him that it is good that he now has someone he likes. Roger agrees and tells him that not only a way to a woman's heart is through her stomach, but through dancing. He tells him that he can teach him some classic Italian dances such as the tarantella. He puts on some Frank Sinatra and helps him know how to dance. Luca and Giulia dance as well, and do some incredible moves that Luca was taught while in Genoa. She tells him that the song that is playing, "Fly Me to The Moon", is one of her favorites. He tells her that he didn't know that. They continue to dance as Florence and Alberto dance as well. Once the song is finished and started again, their families applaud them.

They head up to bed. Roger tells them that he'll be up there. He brings Luca, Alberto, Giulia, and Florence up to the balcony on the roof. They sit up there and watch the stars. Alberto is fascinated by the stars and remembers what happened last year and recalls that he thought they were anchovies. Roger finds it amusing. He tells him that he is still learning. He tells them that his father once went to Africa and a guide told him that the great rulers of the past look down at us from those stars, and they will be there to help guide you. Luca says that is awesome and tells him that his father must have been amazing. He tells him that he was. Roger's father served in the Second World War. He and his platoon landed in Portorosso after a slight mishap in Genoa. He was worn out and Massimo took care of him providing his hospitality to him and three of his friends. He helped his father with providing food, and other provisions. After the war, his father always visited the town. He later introduced his son to the people of the town, and several years later, Roger visited several times and met Massimo's daughter Giulia, and the both of them became close friends. Luca tells him that his parents during the war heard the roaring of planes, gunfire, and even the sounds of boats. Roger tells him that those were the days. He tells him that it is getting late. They leave the balcony and head to bed.

In the middle of the night, Florence wakes up and leaves out of the house. She walks a bit until she reaches a house. Then, she hears the sounds of silent tears. She moves to a basement window. Suddenly, she notices two people, a man and a woman. Their faces are almost recognizable. She pulls out from her pocket a photo of two people that Roger took several years ago. She then looks at their faces. She suddenly realizes who the two people that are being held hostage are. They are Alberto's parents. Then a light turns on, and she runs off in the distance. She hides behind a tree. In the basement of the house, a man in his 40s with a big curly beard and messy hair comes to the prisoners. He speaks to them telling them that they should be quiet. He calls them sea monster scum. He smacks them, and warns them that if they escape, they would have to go through him. He is Rico Visconti, Ercole's short-tempered and mean uncle. Rico heads back upstairs and locks the basement door. Florence has overheard him. She tells herself that she must tell Roger, and that it would be best to keep it a secret from Alberto, until the time is right. She heads back to Roger's home. She heads into Roger's bedroom and wakes him up. She tells him about what she saw and he agrees that they should keep it a secret from the others until they decide to tell them.

The next day, Luca is visiting Mr Santorini's shop to see Alberto. He goes into the shop and sees him working on a Vespa. He calls to him. He notices Luca and tells him it is nice to see him at work. He tells him that he is working on his scooter, improving some features on it and adding some extra things. Luca tells him that it is incredible. He is proud that he has two jobs; fishing and mechanic. Alberto asks him how it is going with reuniting Giulia's parents. He tells him that they are still trying to find the right time to do another attempt. Alberto encourages him, telling him that it will come sooner or later. He tells him to stop by any time, just in case, if there is something wrong with the Isetta or his scooter. Luca leaves the shop and gets into his automobile and drives off into town. He goes around town listening to the theme from The Love Bug, waving hello to Ciccio and Guido, and finally stops at a gelato stand in the middle of town. He gets out and buys a gelato. He climbs into his car and eats his gelato. Suddenly, Ercole notices him in his Isetta, and walks over. He tells him that he is going to get him at last. Luca tells him that he doesn't think so, after what he pulled last year. He tells him that there is no one here to protect him right now. Suddenly, he reaches into the window and tries to grab Luca. He protects himself by closing the window causing Ercole to wince in pain. Luca starts the Isetta and drives off, escaping him. Ercole then chases after him on his Vespa. He chases after him as Luca tries his very best to get away. They go out to the outskirts of town where Luca gives it everything he has got. He leaves dust encircling Ercole blocking his view of him. As the dust settles, Ercole shouts at him that he will get him even if he is a sea monster. He sighs and leaves. As Luca is safely driving away from him he notices the view of the town from the top and stops at the side of a cliff. He gets out of the car and looks down at the town. He looks over the sea watching the view of the scenery including Isola del Mare. He looks over to the west and sees some some buildings in the distance. He grabs his binoculars out of his satchel that he got for his birthday. He looks at the town. It is Genoa. He puts them down. He smiles knowing that this is a breathtaking view. He heads back to his Isetta and drives back to town.

One day, he decides to take his mother in his Isetta for a little drive. As they are cruising, his mother tells him how proud she is of him. He was able to help change Portorosso; from a place that hunts sea monsters to a place that coexists with them. She asks him if he will be entering the Portorosso Cup again. He tells her that he is considering it. She also asks him if he and Giulia will be doing another attempt to reunite her parents. He stops the car. He tells her that she just gave him an idea. He tells her that he will take Giulia for a little drive up to the cliffs overlooking the town, have a little picnic, and talk about bringing her parents together. She tells him that is a wonderful idea. They head home. As his mother gets out, she reminds that she loves him. He tells her that he knows.

That evening, he stops by Giulia's house. He sees Giulia cleaning up the treehouse. She notices him. He asks if she wants to go for a ride. She tells that she thought he'd never ask. She comes with Luca in the Isetta. They drive up to the cliff. They stop and get out. Luca pulls out a picnic basket. He sets it up. She is surprised by what he is doing. She asks him what is happening. He tells her that they are going to have dinner, just the two of them. She tells that is nice. They eat. They have a conversation. They talk about the past year and that this summer is going so well. Luca tells her to hold on for just a minute. He pulls out a lute from his satchel. He starts to play and begins to sing to her. It is "Over the Mountain Across the Sea". Giulia sighs. As he is singing, she is reminiscing about her past, when her parents sang that song when she was little when she went to bed. Luca finishes the song. Giulia tells him that was beautiful. He tells her that her father told him that was one of her favorite songs. She tells him that it was; that her parents sang that to her, before they divorced. Suddenly, she remembers that they haven't tried to attempt bringing her parents back together. He tells her that he was planning to tell her that. She agrees with him, and they try to plan what to do next. After some planning, they settle on planning a private dance just for the two of them. They pack up and drive back to town. They reach Luca's home. They park and get out. She tells him that tonight was wonderful. He tells her that he liked to hear that. He asks if she wants to sleep with him tonight. She says that would be great. They enter the house. Luca's parents greets them; asking how it went. He says it was fantastic. His mother asks if they will try to bring Giulia's parents back again. He tells her that they will. He asks if she can sleep with him tonight. They say she can. They say goodnight. They go up to bed. Just before they head to bed, they watch the stars, and talk about what they want to be later in life. Giulia hopes to be an astronomer. Luca is still thinking about what he wants to do. She tells him they'll think of something. They head to bed and sleep.

The next morning, they wake up and head downstairs for breakfast. His family is all there, including his grandparents. They talk about the plan for the dance. They decide on having Roger be a part of the plan to help provide the music. After breakfast, they go over and find a place to hold the dance. They talk to Roger and a couple of people to help them. They set up for the dance. That night, they again send anonymous messages to Massimo and Lisa to head to the dance area. They head over and see each other. On a stage, Luca and Giulia are wearing disguises to hide their identity. Music begins to play and Lisa and Massimo begin to dance. While they dance, he talks to Lisa about forgetting the past. Lisa tells him that she has been thinking about what he said last time about considering to think it over about the past. He asks her if there is anything to help her out. She tells him there is, that they see each other more. Suddenly, the musicians perform "Sh-Boom". Luca is singing it, with Roger and a barbershop quartet that he knew. They dance as they perform, Lisa reminds Massimo that this was the song they first danced to. He tells her that it was. They continue to dance until the song ends. When the song started again, they applaud with the musicians and thank them for the music. Massimo suddenly turns to Lisa and tells her that he has something to ask her. He tries to pull something out of his pocket. Roger comes down and asks him if he can help him. He helps him get out a small box. He helps open the box, and inside is a ring. Massimo kneels. He proposes to her asking to marry him again. Lisa is surprised by what he is doing, and suddenly tells him yes. She hugs him. They congratulate them. They thank Roger for organizing this event. He tells them, that they shouldn't thank him. He turns to Luca and Giulia. They take off their disguises. They are surprised that they did this. Lisa thanks them and hugs them. Giulia tells her mother, that she was around, and she could've helped her. She tells them that she wanted them together so bad. Lisa apologizes to her, saying that she shouldn't have divorced. They thank them once again. Then, Luca's parents and friends come out and congrulate them for the success. Luca's mother asks them when they are going to get married. Lisa tells her that they plan to do it in a couple of weeks. They are proud that they are getting back together. They head back home.

The next day, Luca brings Giulia and Alberto for a spin in his Isetta. He takes them up a mountain. He plans to go down it. Suddenly, Alberto gets scared saying he is not ready. Luca reminds him of what he taught him last year, saying he has that voice in his head. He encourages him to say "Silenzo, Bruno!" Soon enough, he tells Luca that he only hears him. Luca tells him to hang on and begins to go down the mountain very fast. Alberto is a little scared, but soon enough his fear evaporates and begins to shout in delight. They drive down the mountain and into town where Luca reaches town square and swerves around the fountain and stops. Luca asks Alberto how that was. He tells him that was awesome. Luca is so proud that he is having fun. Alberto then tells him that he is glad that Giulia's parents are back together. Luca tells him that he is too. He hopes that he can help prepare them for the big day. Even they offered him to officiate the wedding. Alberto says that is nice. He is their stepson. They get some gelato and head over to Roger's place. They go inside and see Roger. He tells them that he is proud that they succeeded in reuniting Giulia's parents back together. Alberto sees Florence and they talk about how they are doing. She is astonished that his best friend reunite some people back together. He asks if she can go out with him again. She says that would be great. Roger then heads to Florence and asks if they should reveal the secret. They decide to do it. They sit down and they tell Alberto that Florence found out that his parents are in the basement of Rico Visconti's home. They were kidnapped. Alberto tells them that they should rescue them. Roger tells him that they plan to do it soon. He tells him that they should wait until the right moment, then they should strike.

Later, that night, however, Alberto sneaks off, and attempts to rescue his parents. His patience had worn off. He finds Rico's home. He decides to attempt to open the basement window. He finds a stick and heads to the window to pry it open. He pushes, and lifts it slowly. Then, the stick snaps. Suddenly, the door opens and Rico notices him attempting to open the window. He comes over to him and picks him up. Alberto tries to break free. Rico tells him that his nephew told him everything about him. He drags him into the house and throws him in the basement. Rico laughs and walks back upstairs. Alberto then notices his parents. His parents look at him. He comes over to them and they hug each other. His father tells him that he missed him so much. He tells him that he did too. He tells his mother that he missed her as well. He tells them all about his adventures while they were gone. He tells them about his best friend Luca and how Massimo took care of him while they were away. His father is grateful that Massimo took care of his son and tells him that he is proud. Alberto asks them what happened to them and why they ended up in the basement of someone's home. They tell them that on their way back, about 2 years ago, while they were swimming home, they ended up in a fisherman's net which was released from Rico's boat. They ended up in the clutches of Rico. He headed back to Portorosso, holding them in a giant sack and were held hostage up to this day. Rico realized that they were sea monsters and planned that one day he would kill them. Alberto is shocked that Ercole's uncle kidnapped them after he found them. And now, he was kidnapped as well.

The next day, Ercole leaves to see his uncle. He goes up the hill to his house on his Vespa. Suddenly, he hears voices coming from the basement. Rico is giving his prisoners food. He smacks them. Ercole looks through the window and notices the event. Rico tells them that he will still keep them here and they are not supposed to escape. Suddenly, Ercole gasps silently and notices that Alberto has been captured. He realizes that he must tell Alberto's friends about this. But, he thinks, that if he tells them, they will kill him. He has a battle in his mind. Ultimately, he changes his demeanor and decides to tell them. He leaves and heads back to town.

In Luca's home, he and the rest of his friends and family. They talk about the disappearance of Alberto last night. Luca is worried that his friend wouldn't do such a thing. They hope to find him. Suddenly, Ercole comes into the room. His head is hung down. Luca asks him what he is doing here. He tells Luca that his uncle kidnapped Alberto. Luca is shocked. Roger tells them that he told him that he should've waited. He tells Ercole that he is proud that he told them this. Luca agrees with Roger and accepts Ercole's apology. He tells him that he can help rescue him. Besides, Ercole knows his uncle more than anyone else.

That night, they begin to plan how they are going to rescue Alberto and his parents. Luca tells them what they are going to do. Through Ercole, they find out about the defenses in the home. Apparently, his uncle Rico has dogs stationed around the house. There are two dogs. One guarding the entrance to the basement. Another guards Rico's bedroom. Roger tells them that he knows a weakness which will take down the dogs. It is perfume. One sniff of perfume and it ruins the dogs' noses and causes to fall into a deep sleep. Roger decides that he and Florence will take down the dogs. Then, they figure out how to unlock the basement door. Ercole tells them that his uncle usually leaves the keys to the basement in his coat pocket. His coat is always hung on the rack at night in the hall. This gives them a distinct advantage. That way, they don't need to sneak into Rico's bedroom and get the keys. Luca tells them what he is going to do. He tells them that he and Giulia will go through the basement window which was opened by Alberto. He will then wait for Roger and Florence to unlock the door. They will go up the stairs, go out the front door, and then bring Alberto and his parents into his Isetta, and drive them back to town where they will be safe at Giulia's house, where Massimo and his wife will help them. They also plan what to do, in case Rico wakes up, and notices they are gone. Ercole decides that he, Ciccio, Guido, and his parents will try to prevent Rico from chasing them. The plan has been set out. They decide to strike at midnight tonight. Luca encourages them telling them that Alberto snuck off because he cared about his parents. He tells them that he sacrificed himself to try to save them. And now, they must rescue him. Alberto is the person that brought Luca out of the water and onto land. He introduced him to the human world. And Luca does not want to lose him. He tells them that they can do this. They are encouraged and applaud him.

A couple of hours later, they begin the plan. They take off to Rico's house. They wait outside his house until the lights turn off. Luca and his friends come out and begin the plan. He and Giulia head over to the window. Roger and Florence head over to the front door. They open it, slowly. Roger pulls out the perfume and sprays it. The dogs sniff the perfume and they begin to sleep deeply. They head into the house. In the basement, Alberto and his parents sit down on the floor. Suddenly, Luca and Giulia come into the basement through the window. He asks them what they are doing here. Luca tells him that they are here to break him out. He tells Luca that wants to introduce his parents. Luca tells him that now is not the time. Upstairs, Roger and Florence pull the keys out of the coat pocket. They move quietly through the house and go down to the basement door. They unlock the door and they open it. Luca and his friends go up the stairs slowly and silently. They go through the house until they reach the door. Then, suddenly, Roger takes a bad step, and the floor creaks. Rico wakes up. Luca and the rest go out the door quickly. Rico notices them escaping. He chases after them. Ercole and his family and friends stand in front of Rico. Luca tells Alberto and his family to hurry. They get in the Isetta. Alberto's father then asks Luca if he knows how to drive this thing. He tells him that he does and he has done this several times. He tells them to hold onto their butts and warns them that it is going to get a little rough. They take off. Rico attempts to chase after them. Suddenly, he grabs Ercole and insults him by telling him that he is a traitor. Ercole tells his uncle that he is sick and tired of him pushing him around. He lets go of his nephew and runs off to his Vespa and takes off chasing after Luca and his friends. In the Isetta, Alberto looks behind him and notices Rico chasing them. He tells Luca that they have got company. Luca tells him to hold tight and gives it everything he has got. They go into the town. Luca drives them up to Giulia's house. Alberto and his parents get out and Luca's parents help them inside. Giulia is there along with Roger and Florence. Luca suddenly notices Rico coming. He tells him that it is time to initiate his backup plan. He tells them that he is going to lure Rico and allow him to chase after them. He spoke with the police telling them that he is going to give a signal that will allow the police to chase after Rico. Giulia tells him to be safe and reminds him that she loves him. Luca tells her that he will and that he loves her too. They look at each other and they kiss. Luca tells her that was the first time they kissed. He takes off and goes around town. Rico chases after him and notices that they are gone. He grabs a spear and throws it at Luca. He avoids it. Rico goes up to him and attempts to pull him out. Luca swerves out of the way. Rico crashes into a pile of barrels and falls off. Luca turns around and honks the horn. The police watch from a balcony and they notice that that was the signal. Rico tells himself that now there's a sea monster. Luca speeds toward him preparing to ram him. Rico tries to tell Luca to hit him. Suddenly, he screams and swerves out of the way. He gets out of the Isetta and grabs a spear. Rico grabs a rifle. They circle around each other. Rico tells him that he is a fool. He tells him that he should tell him where his prisoners are. Luca tells him that it will be over his dead body. Rico tells him that he asked for it. He holds up his rifle and shoots. Luca deflects the bullets with the spear. Suddenly, the police come up to Rico, along with Luca's friends. An officer tells him that he is under arrest. He places handcuffs on him and carries him away. Rico tells them that this isn't over and he will get them. The police carries him away to a truck and they take him away. They come over to Luca and congratulate him. He tells them thanks and that there was nothing to it. Giulia and Alberto come over and they hug him. He knows that he was a hero. Alberto tells him thanks for rescuing him. They head back to the house and Luca gets to meet Alberto's parents.

Several days later, It has finally come. Giulia's parents are getting married. The entire town is there to see them. Luca is at the front of the church dressed in a blue tuxedo. Alberto is right next to him since he has been chosen to be the best man. Massimo is at the altar with the boys. "Here Comes the Bride" plays as Lisa walks down the aisle with her daughter. She reaches the altar and looks at Massimo and smiles. Luca then begins officiating the wedding. He speaks about how they were separated, and the reason they broke up. And now they are reunited. Giulia hands her parents the rings. Luca tells him that he believes that they prepared vows. Massimo tells Lisa that he felt bad for losing her. He loves her with all of his heart and promises to never break up again. With Alberto's help, he places the ring on Lisa's finger. Lisa tells him that he is a wonderful person and that with the help of their daughter, they are back together. Their daughter, Giulia, was the reason they got back. She missed them so much, that she wanted them back. And now, Lisa knows that family is important and that it stays together. She places the ring on his finger. Luca asks Lisa if she will take Massimo to be her husband. She says that she does. Luca asks Massimo if he will take Lisa to be his wife. He says that he will. Luca closes saying that he now pronounces them husband and wife. He tells Massimo that he may try to kiss the bride. Daniela rushes to Lisa. Luca explains that he now pronounces the two girls getting married. The two girls kiss and the congress applauds. They walk down the aisle holding arm and arm as the "Wedding March" plays.

They leave the church. They gather around the center of town for the reception. Now it is time for wedding gifts. Roger congratulates them on their marriage. He has a gift for Massimo. He, Luca, and Alberto helped work on his gift. Luca hands Roger a box. He opens the box and shows Massimo. It is a prosthetic arm. Massimo is surprised. He tells Roger that he wanted one of these for years. Roger helps put it on. He tightens the bolts and makes sure it is a comfy fit. Roger tells him to give it a try. He raises his arm and he is able to move his fingers. He thanks the boys and hugs them. He tells Lisa that he can now carry her across the threshold. He lifts her up and they kiss. He puts her back down. Next, it is Lisa's gift to her husband. She gives him a golden spear. It is tradition that the wife gives her husband (if he is a fisherman) a spear on their wedding. Since it is their second wedding, the wife gives her husband a golden spear. During their first wedding, the spear is silver. This one is golden. Then Lisa gets her gift, and it is a painting set. Now she can paint some portraits of her friends and family. Now, it is time for Giulia to get her gift, since she is the daughter of the married couple. Luca, Alberto, and Roger got it for her. It is a surprise. Luca tells her to cover her eyes. He leads her. Then he tells her to open them. She is surprised and hugs Luca, thanking him. She tells them that she always wanted this. It is a Fiat 500 as she had hoped. Her father asks her why she wanted it. She tells her parents that she wanted to take them in it on their honeymoon. Her mother realizes that they haven't thought about having another honeymoon. She tells him that it would be nice to do another one. She says that it could be a family honeymoon. Massimo agrees. Their daughter asks where they will head. Her mom asks if Rome will be OK. She says that it is. She asks them if Luca and Alberto's family can come; since they haven't been to Rome. They tell her that they can come. Massimo agrees saying he would love to have his future son-in-law come with them. Luca asks him if it is him. He tells Luca that is right and that they make an amazing couple. He is surprised, but he knows that he and Giulia are not only friends, but they are also in love with each other. He looks at her and says that they do love each other. She tells Luca that is true because she loves her. He tells her that he knows and that he loves her, too. They lean toward each other and try to kiss until Daniela kiss her. The entire town was in wild cacophony. Alberto waves his hands as well and tells Florence that he loves her too. Florence says she does and that she will always love him. They hug as they watch their girls kiss. They stop, and Luca and Giulia, walk holding hands, looking at each other.

The next couple of days, Luca and his friends prepare to leave for Rome. He helps his family pack. While they are doing so, Roger comes in. He tells him that he has a gift for his family. He knows that the entire family can't fit in their son's Isetta. He leads them outside and shows them a BMW Isetta 600 limo. It is much longer and bigger than the Isetta 300. His parents thank Roger for everything and they tell him that their son can teach them. Roger tells Luca that he is an incredible boy with a lot of curiosity, and he likes that. He thanks Roger for teaching him more about the world. He asks him how long he will stay here. Roger tells him that he will be here for a year or two. Roger tells him that he is proud that Luca is taking another step into a larger world. He tells him that when in Portorosso, all of the roads lead somewhere. And one of them is his road, and it leads to his family and friends. He wishes them a happy journey and tells them that during their trip, that they should catch the rebuilt Colosseum in Rome, as it could be one where they place everyone getting eaten by wild animals. He leaves.

After a couple of days, they get ready to leave. As Luca packs everything into his Isetta, a close friend in town comes over to see him. His name is Giorgio. He asks him where he is going. He tells him that he is heading for Rome. Giorgio asks if he can come too. He tells Luca that his parents said he is ready for a trip anytime soon. Luca tells him that is alright. He tells him that he has had one of the greatest summers ever and can't wait to have more. They get in the Isetta and prepare to leave. He goes up to Giulia and asks if she is ready. She tells him that she is. Alberto is in there as well. He says that they are all good to go. They leave Portorosso with all the villagers waving goodbye. Roger is also there. He waves goodbye as well and wishes them a happy voyage. They all go off into the sunset.

During the credits, we see them hanging out in Rome, watching the leopard trying to eat him. As Luca dodges the leopard, they cheer. Luca teaches his mother how to ride a Vespa. Apparently, she gets the hang of it, and she passes by her husband, who is stunned. Even Giulia and Luca race against each other. They meet the pope, and Luca reveals his identity and the pope accepts it, since he appreciates all living creatures. Luca and Giulia eat at a diner and they eat the same strand of spaghetti. They know they are having fun.

In an end credits scene, Luca's uncle, Ugo, comes up from the water and onto land. He looks around and tells himself that it is so good to be back. Then, he runs into Ercole. He notices him and tells that he knows him, and tells him that his nephew, Luca, doesn't want to see him again. He pushes him into the water. Luca watches from a window and gives Ercole a thumbs up. Ercole waves to him and walks away. Luca then tells himself that it will be the last time he will see his uncle.

Cast
Jacob Tremblay as Luca Paguro

Jack Dylan Grazer as Alberto Scorfano

Emma Berman as Giulia Marcovaldo

Maya Rudolph as Daniela Paguro

Jim Gaffigan as Lorenzo Paguro

Marco Barricelli as Massimo Marcovaldo

Katherine Waterston as Lisa Marcovaldo (Giulia's mother)

Saverio Raimondo as Ercole Visconti

Sandy Martin as Grandma Paguro

John Goodman as Grandpa Paguro

Peter Sohn as Ciccio

Lorenzo Crisci as Guido

Noah Schnapp as Roger Patterson

Don Novello as Mr. Santorini

Ava Justin as Florence Castiglione

John Leguizamo as Bruno Madrigal (Alberto's father)

Cate Blanchett as Amelia Scorfano (Alberto's mother)

Johnny Depp as Rico Visconti (Ercole's uncle)

Wyatt White as Giorgio

Production
After the release of Luca, director Enrico Casarosa expressed interest in a sequel. It would be similar to The Parent Trap, which would center upon Luca and Giulia's attempt to reunite Massimo and his wife. Shortly after the film's release, Disney+ sent a survey to subscribers asking about their opinion of the movie and asked "how likely would each household member [want] to watch another movie involving the characters and world of Luca if it became available," implying that the studio was considering producing a sequel at some point. At the D23 Expo 2022, Casarosa announced Luca 2, a sequel to the first film. Casarosa worked with Jesse Andrews and Simon Stephenson on the story. Well known producer Thomas Jones was invited to help with the story after he sent concept art and story ideas to Casarosa. Around September 2022, they started working on the film. They cast the original cast to reprise their roles from the first film. Recording of the voices of the characters ended in January. Post-production ended in mid-February. On February 3, 2023, actress Ava Justin tweeted about the film saying that she was contacted by Disney to play an unknown role in the film. On March 23, Casarosa tweeted a picture of Luca right next to his BMW Isetta which appeared in the trailer and the film. In April, Casarosa revealed that the film would take place in 1969, exactly one year after the events of the first film.

Marketing
At Super Bowl LVII, a teaser trailer for the film was released. On March 17, 2023, the cast of the film was announced along with the official trailer which reached 47 million views on YouTube in one day. The film was revealed to be released on Disney+ as an original film and also be released in theaters June 27. On May 14, the final trailer was released. On June 12, GEICO released 2 commercials to promote the film. One featured the gecko talking to Luca about how 15 minutes could save him 15% or more on insurance such as boat, home, RV, and even motorcycle insurance. The other featured Luca's mother daydreaming about riding on a Vespa while listening to "Build Me Up Buttercup" by the Foundations. BMW helped promote the film by offering a free subscription to Disney+, if they buy a BMW. McDonald's also promoted the film with toys in a Happy Meal to collect all of them. In mid-June, Mattel released toys based on the film and Walt Disney World was celebrating the film's release by decorating Epcot in Italian decor. At several car auctions in the country, they offered people who won a bid on a BMW, free tickets to see the film. Vespa promoted the film with special edition scooters with the characters painted on them. Only 20,000 were made. The game Rocket League released a special promo for the game, providing the player BMW Isettas' themed around the movie. Disney also released merchandise for the film including toys, books, clothing, and other things. On June 6, some of the cast of the film appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where a clip from the film was shown. The app Disney Magic Kingdoms released their event from the first film and added another one. They also promoted the addition of Massimo, Lisa, and Luca and Alberto's family by having certain characters do tasks to help unlock the characters. At Disneyland, for a limited time, the Submarine Voyage was rethemed to fit Luca. The ride would take a journey to visit the waters off Portorosso and see sea monsters. You would also have the chance to meet Luca himself as he shows off his underwater home.

Release
The film had its grand premiere on June 14 at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California. The film was finally released on June 27 in over 3,000 theaters in the United States and on Disney+ the same day as an original. Around Independence Day, the film grossed about $37.9 million in the United States and $78.7 million worldwide making it the 5th highest grossing film of 2023. Disney+ received about 500,000 subscribers on the release of the film. It received a score of 99% on Rotten Tomatoes, and was considered the #1 movie in the world, although it was the 5th highest film that year.

Home media
On August 25th, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment released Luca 2 on DVD, Blu-ray, 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and DVD, and Digital. Over 3 million copies of the movie were sold.

Future
On July 17, 2023, during an interview with Casarosa with Apple, it was revealed that a third film was in the works, along with another short and an animated TV series on Disney+. He also revealed that Apple and Disney were working together on a crossover special with the Peanuts gang titled ''[https://peanutsfanon.fandom.com/wiki/Mamma_Mia,_Charlie_Brown! Mamma Mia, Charlie Brown!]'', where Charlie Brown would end up in Italy after a little mishap, on the way to London for a student exchange program. There he would travel across the country, searching for his friends, and finally end up in Portorosso, where Charlie Brown would meet Luca and his friends. On September 15, 2023, it was released on Disney+ and Apple TV+ respectively. On November 20, Casarosa revealed Luca: Grown Up as the title of the next film. He stated that the film will take place 20 years later, and will follow an adult Luca as he raises his children and tries to convince the world that his kind are all not bad.

Soundtrack
The soundtrack for the movie is composed by Christophe Beck who composed several films including The Peanuts Movie and The Pink Panther replacing Dan Romer who composed the soundtrack from the first film.

Songs

 * "My Baby Just Cares For Me" by Ted Weems and His Orchestra, sung by Art Jarrett
 * Il Canto Degli Italiani (The Song of the Italians) Italian National Anthem)) written by Goffredo Mameli, set to music by Michele Novaro
 * Theme Song from The Love Bug written by George Bruns
 * Over The Mountain Across The Sea by Bobby Vinton
 * Fly Me to The Moon by Frank Sinatra
 * That's Amore by Dean Martin
 * Sh-Boom by The Chords
 * Wedding March (Piano Version) by Felix Mendelssohn

Trivia

 * The Isetta that Luca drives is a light blue 1957 BMW Isetta 300.
 * Don Novello does Mr. Santorini. His character's name is a reference to a character he played in Disney's Atlantis: The Lost Empire: Vincent Santorini, a demolitions expert.
 * Although Enrico Casarosa revealed that Luca's birthday is November 20th, they set his birthday in the summer around June to make the story more interesting.
 * In the film, Roger nicknames Luca "hermit crab"; this is because Luca's last name, Paguro, means hermit crab in Italian.
 * During the dinner scene, before the dance, Roger serves ratatouille for Luca, this is a reference to another Pixar film Ratatouille. Luca also says a quote that was said by Linguini in the film commenting on the name of the dish.
 * A reference to The Lion King is made by Roger; speaking about Africa, and says the line said by Mufasa about "the great kings of the past".
 * This is the second that the song "Over the Mountain Across the Sea" appears in a film. The first time was in Godzilla vs. Kong.
 * This is the first time that this film in the Luca franchise to have a film be released not only as a Disney+ original, but also be released in theaters at the same time.
 * The restaurant that Massimo and Lisa eat during a recreation of their first date is the "Ristorante di Fiori" which in Italian, translates to "Restaurant of Flowers".
 * In the film, Luca and Giulia are close friends and they begin to have a romantic relationship. This can be seen in the picnic scene, the rescue of Alberto's parents, and the reception of the wedding of Giulia's parents.
 * The song "Sh-Boom" appears in the film and the version that Luca, Roger, and the quartet sings is a combination of the Chords and the Crew Cuts versions.
 * A reference to The Dark Knight is made where Rico tells Luca to hit him. And just like Batman, Luca swerves out of the way of Rico. Rico also says "Now there's a sea monster", a parody of the line Joker said in the film, "Now there's a Batman".
 * A reference to Lady and the Tramp is seen during the credits where Giulia and Luca eat the same strand of spaghetti.
 * "A113" appears on the train and on the license plate of the BMW Isetta 600 limo at the end of the film.
 * The Pizza Planet truck makes a cameo at the beginning of the film in Genoa.
 * During the rescue scene, Luca quotes Ray Arnold's quote from Jurassic Park, "hold onto your butts".
 * Does this mean the Colosseum is rebuilt in 2028?
 * Ghostbusters reference.