Boccaccio '70

Synopsis

Boccaccio '70 is a 1962 Italian anthology film composed of four distinct episodes, each directed by prominent filmmakers: Mario Monicelli, Federico Fellini, Luchino Visconti, and Vittorio De Sica. The film explores various facets of love and morality in contemporary society, drawing inspiration from the style of Giovanni Boccaccio's classic storytelling. The stories range from a man's infatuation with a prostitute to a wealthy politician's secret obsession, capturing a blend of comedy, drama, and social commentary. Marisa Solinas stars in one of the segments, contributing to the ensemble's compelling portrayal of complex human emotions. The film remains a landmark in Italian cinema, combining sharp satire with evocative narrative styles.

Cast

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  Marisa Solinas

  Luciana (segment "Renzo e Luciana")

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  Anita Ekberg

  Anita (segment "Le tentazioni del dottor Antonio")

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  Romy Schneider

  Pupe (segment "Il lavoro")

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  Sophia Loren

  Zoe (segment "La riffa")

• Germano Gilioli

  Renzo (segment "Renzo e Luciana")

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  Peppino De Filippo

  Dr. Antonio Mazzuolo (segment "Le tentazioni del dottor ...")

Reviews

Boccaccio '70 holds an IMDb rating of 7.0/10, reflecting a generally favorable reception among viewers who appreciate classic Italian cinema and anthology storytelling. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film has a 50% score, indicating mixed reviews from critics, often praising its ambitious concept but noting uneven execution across the episodes. Critics have acknowledged the outstanding direction by each filmmaker, especially highlighting Fellini's segment for its imaginative approach and Visconti's for its emotional depth. However, some reviews point out that the shifts in tone from episode to episode create an inconsistent viewing experience. According to the New York Times, the film is "an intriguing if uneven exploration of contemporary mores," while Variety praised the performances and production quality but criticized the lack of cohesion. Film enthusiasts admire Boccaccio '70 for its bold thematic exploration and its snapshot of 1960s Italian society, though casual viewers might find the narrative style challenging. Overall, the movie is valued more for its artistic significance and directorial power than for straightforward entertainment.