rossangela

I have watched this film more than once, because it is such a great ride and a wonderful performance by Manfredi. The plot may confuse some (see other reviewer), but that's the whole point -- it is supposed to leave you with doubts about the mysterious Riri --- is she really his book-loving wife, with a double life as a prostitute? Or, are they different people? If you've ever been to Venice and either loved it or hated it, this film will support either opinion. Yes, there may be rats and rain, but also superb art and traditions. It should be more available for viewing. Where can we watch this?

I love this film, partially for the tender story, but also for the scenes of an almost empty Rome. The main character, Gianni, is a gentle, caring guy with a knack for feeding a bunch of women, when most stores are closed for the national holiday of "Ferragosto," when most Italians head for the beaches and mountains. It's a quiet, endearing look at a typical Roman way of rolling with the punches, and getting by in creative ways. I especially recommend this movie for anyone who loves Italy or who has been there during the holiday of Ferragosto. I really like all the different female characters especially the mother of Gianni.

This film is rich in cultural, historical and social history. It shows how tough and brutal life could be in pre-WWII Sicily. I like the way the town evolves from a dusty run-down village to one of modern Italy. The ending is very dreamlike and confusing, but you can make of it as you want. It is artistic and a cause for post-viewing discussions.

My only beef about the film is the subtitles that they chose to make with white lettering, not outlined in black. When will film companies finally realize that they need to make subtitles more readable --- research shows that yellow with a blue outline is easiest on the eyes. We missed a lot of the dialog due to difficult to read subtitles. But as far as the actual CRAFT of the film -- it is superb.