Commedia sexy all'italiana

Il merlo maschio (1971) - Laura Antonelli

Gloria Guida in La liceale

Commedia sexy all'italiana (literally "sexy comedy in the Italian way") is a subgenre of Italian comedy film that became popular in the late 1960s and remained so until the early 1980s. This genre is characterized by a mix of humor, satire, and sexual innuendos, often with a focus on the changing social mores and sexual liberation of the era. The films typically feature attractive women in leading roles, often in situations that highlight their physical appeal, and plots that revolve around sexual misunderstandings, affairs, and the generational gap in attitudes towards sex.

History and Characteristics

The commedia sexy all'italiana emerged during a period of significant social change in Italy, reflecting and contributing to the liberalization of sexual attitudes. It can be seen as a response to the earlier, more conservative Commedia all'italiana, adding a more explicit sexual element to the traditional comedic storytelling. The genre gained momentum with the economic boom of the 1960s, which brought about a greater sense of freedom and a challenge to traditional values.

Films in this genre often took a light-hearted approach to topics that were considered taboo at the time, such as premarital sex, infidelity, and the role of women in society. They were populated by a recurring cast of actors, including Edwige Fenech, Barbara Bouchet, and Lando Buzzanca, who became synonymous with the genre. Directors like Lucio Fulci, Sergio Martino, and Pasquale Festa Campanile were instrumental in shaping the aesthetic and thematic concerns of the commedia sexy all'italiana.

Themes and Impact

The commedia sexy all'italiana frequently explored the clash between traditional Italian values and the modern, more liberated viewpoint of the 1960s and 70s. This was often depicted through the juxtaposition of older, more conservative characters with young, free-spirited ones, highlighting the generational divide. The films also addressed the economic disparities and regional differences within Italy, albeit in a humorous and often exaggerated manner.

While the genre was immensely popular in Italy and had a significant cultural impact, it also faced criticism for its portrayal of women and reliance on sexual objectification for humor. Despite this, the commedia sexy all'italiana played a role in pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable in mainstream cinema and contributed to the broader conversation about sexuality and gender roles in Italy and beyond.

Legacy

The popularity of commedia sexy all'italiana waned in the early 1980s as societal attitudes continued to evolve and the genre began to feel dated. However, its influence can still be seen in contemporary Italian cinema and television, particularly in works that blend comedy with social commentary. The genre also paved the way for future filmmakers to explore sexual and social themes with greater openness.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in commedia sexy all'italiana, with film scholars and enthusiasts reevaluating its contribution to Italian cinema and its reflection of societal changes. The genre remains a fascinating snapshot of a transformative period in Italian society, offering insights into the complexities of the era's sexual politics and cultural shifts.