After the Fox

After the Fox is an entertaining, funny and intricately plotted 1966 movie, directed by Vittorio De Sica and starring an array of remarkable talents including Peter Sellers, Victor Mature, and Britt Ekland. Written by Neil Simon, the zany spoof offers solid humor, splendid performances, and a charming Italianate setting combined with a remarkably well-constructed story line.

Peter Sellers, celebrated British comedian and actor known for his talent in incisive characterization, masterfully assumes the central role of Aldo Vanucci, also known as "the Fox". This masterful thief, known for his ability to transform and blend into any situation, is forcibly compelled to gauge his abilities when he escapes from prison. This escape, however, is not for nefarious reasons but motivated by a genuine concern for his family's well-being, as he finds out his younger sister, played by the beautiful Ekland, is venturing dangerously close to the film industry, a world that he deems shady.

While Sellers shines in his role, he is also joined by the character Tony Powell, played by Victor Mature. Powell is a washed-up Hollywood actor, eager for a role that can revive his career and his failing fame. Their paths intertwines in the grand scheme formulated by Vanucci to save his sister and make a fortune. In this, the film provides hilarious satire of Hollywood's machinery and the film industry itself.

As Vanucci, Sellers creates a fake production titled ‘The Gold of Cairo’ as a smokescreen to smuggle gold. Part of the thrill of After the Fox, lies in watching the various roles and costumes that Vanucci adopts as part of his mission. The role that truly stands out is his role as the renown Italian film director Federico Fabrizi, complete with round glasses and a full beard. With this pretense, he convinces Powell, who’s oblivious to Vanucci’s true intentions, to star in his mock film. The film’s plot continues to weave an intricate web of crime, adventure, and comedy, engaging the audience until the very end.

Simultaneously, the film takes turns at satirizing the art world, the pretentiousness of film directors, and the vanity of fading Hollywood stars. It balances every facet perfectly, from adventure to comedy, from crime drama to family affairs, leaving no stone unturned.

Victor Mature's portrayal as a fading Hollywood actor breathes laughter and interest into this rich narrative. His fantastic comedic timing and ability to effortlessly blend his performance style with the movie's satirical edge contribute significantly to the film's overall charm. The film is also a showcase for the stunning beauty and undeniable talent of Brit Ekland, who adds a magnetic pull to the movie with her charismatic screen presence and elegance.

The beautiful setting of Italy adds another layer of appeal to After the Fox. Whether it's the scenes on the beautiful Mediterranean beach fronts or small Italian towns, each locale is a feast for the eyes. The film takes full advantage of its setting, mixing stunning visuals, cultural impressions, and fast-paced action with a thick layer of comedy in a delightful orchestration of entertainment.

Despite being set more than half a century ago, the film's themes resonate with modern viewers. It is an example of exceptional screenplay writing filled with hilarious dialogues, engaging storylines, incredible performances, and high-quality production values familiar in Neil Simon’s work.

In conclusion, After the Fox is a delightful and witty ride packed with adventure, satire, brilliant performances, and a clever and comedic narrative that nimbly twists and turns. Featuring excellent performances by Peter Sellers, Victor Mature, and Britt Ekland, this movie masterfully lampoons the film industry, while delivering laughs and drama in equal measure. A classic worth revisiting or discovering for the first time.