Watch Divorce Italian Style

Divorce Italian Style is a satirical comedy-drama movie from 1961 that offers a satirical and insightful perspective on Italian divorce laws and customs. The movie was directed by Pietro Germi, who co-wrote the script with Ennio De Concini and Alfredo Giannetti. The movie stars Marcello Mastroianni, Daniela Rocca, and Stefania Sandrelli.

The movie is set in Sicily, Italy, in the 1960s and revolves around the story of an unhappy marriage between a nobleman named Ferdinando Cefalù (played by Marcello Mastroianni) and his wife, Rosalia (played by Daniela Rocca). Ferdinando is tired of his wife, who is unattractive and dull, and he wants to get a divorce. However, in Italy, getting a divorce is difficult, and the only way to get one is to catch one's spouse in adultery. Ferdinando concocts a scheme to trap his wife into having an affair with his cousin, and then killing her in a "crime of passion."

The movie is a hilarious commentary on the absurdity of Italian divorce laws and customs. The characters are portrayed as caricatures of traditional Italian stereotypes, and the movie is filled with irony and satire. The director uses music, lighting, and camera angles to create a dark, comedic atmosphere. The movie is a critique of the conservative, patriarchal values of Italian society, which limit women's freedom and promote male dominance.

Marcello Mastroianni gives a stellar performance as Ferdinando, the conniving nobleman who is desperate to free himself from his dull wife. Mastroianni's character is both despicable and sympathetic, and the actor manages to convey his inner turmoil and desperation convincingly. Daniela Rocca also gives an excellent performance as Rosalia, the bored, unattractive wife who is oblivious to her husband's schemes. Although the character is not given much to do, Rocca manages to bring a depth of emotion to her performance that resonates with the audience.

Stefania Sandrelli, who plays Angela, the 16-year-old cousin whom Ferdinando wants to seduce, is a revelation. Her character is wise beyond her years, and Sandrelli manages to capture her character's innocence and quiet strength. Her performance is nuanced, and she manages to convey a range of emotions with subtlety and grace.

The movie's themes are relevant even today. It offers a critique of the patriarchal values that limit women's freedom and perpetuate gender inequality. The movie shows how men use their power to manipulate and control women, and it offers a powerful indictment of the hypocrisy of Italian society. However, the movie is also a love letter to Sicily, and it celebrates the beauty and charm of the island.

Overall, Divorce Italian Style is a remarkable movie that offers a biting critique of Italian society while also being an entertaining satire. The movie's themes are timeless, and its message is as relevant today as it was in 1961. The performances are exceptional, and the movie is a masterclass in directing, acting, and screenwriting. It is a must-see for anyone interested in Italian cinema or social commentary.

Divorce Italian Style is a 1961 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0.