And Suddenly It's Murder

And Suddenly It's Murder, released in 1960, is a remarkable film in the Italian comedy genre. The movie features a stellar lineup of Alberto Sordi, Vittorio Gassman, and Nino Manfredi, each actors who made enduring contributions to the landscape of Italian cinema. Directed by Camillo Mastrocinque, the film beautifully combines comedy with suspense and mystery, and keeps viewers engaged with continuous surprising turn of events.

The film is set in post-war Rome, Italy, and begins with an unexpected and slightly grim scene. A set of diggers operating on a construction site accidentally unearths twelve human skulls in the foundations of an old building. This discovery sets Rome into a state of shock and initiates a wild, convoluted series of events, eventually leading the police to the doorstep of the film's protagonists—two dynamic, recurring characters, Remo and Marina.

Remo, played by Alberto Sordi, is a small-time, lowly, yet crafty conman whose wits and charisma are his keys to survival in the complex city. On the other hand, the enchanting Marina, portrayed by the equally delightful Silvana Mangano, is Remo's partner in crime and sometimes love interest. Their relationship, tinged with moments of absurdity, hilarity, and affection, forms one of the central narratives of the film. The chemistry between Sordi and Mangano is one of the many factors that set And Suddenly It’s Murder apart.

Vittorio Gassman breathes life into the character of a street-wise, ambitious detective, who is desperate to unravel the mystery surrounding the human skulls. Gassman's role as the relentless, tenacious cop on the hunt, is layered with humor and wit, showcasing his exceptional abilities as an actor and eliciting frequent laughter from the audience. Meanwhile, Nino Manfredi embodies the rugged, big-hearted and somewhat naive construction worker who first discovers the skulls, setting the rollicking pace of the movie into motion.

The plot kicks into gear as Remo and Marina become entwined into the investigation, priming the narrative for a complicated and hilarious rendezvous with the law. As the plot unfolds, each character grapples with their own unique dilemmas, ensuing plenty of slapstick comedy and chaos. The narrative propels forward with cleverly constructed plot twists, making for an enjoyable roller-coaster ride that leaves audiences both laughing and guessing until the end.

Camillo Mastrocinque, the director of the film, succeeds brilliantly in preserving the essence of Italian comedy while blending it with an enthralling, wholly engaging narrative. The film’s expert cinematography also adds an authentic charm and richness of detail. The setting beautifully represents a post-war Italian cityscape, with a realistic depiction of the era's tangible details. The beauty of Rome is further highlighted through masterfully crafted cinematography, that pairs perfect gloomy, eerie shots with bright, colorful moments.

What's more, the background score of And Suddenly It’s Murder complements each scene by harmonizing drama and levity, thereby enhancing the overall cinematic experience. Italian maestro composer Carlo Rustichelli creates an agreeable symphony, perfectly marrying sounds with the narrative to further reveal the story's mirth, suspense, and intrigue.

The star-studded And Suddenly It's Murder stands out for the performances that Sordi, Gassman and Manfredi offer, making viewers laugh, empathize, and connect with the quirkiness of their characters. It brings forth a riotous amalgamation of humor and suspense, created by a talented and distinguished ensemble of Italian actors and film professionals.

The film is strewn with clever dialogues, brilliantly designed sets, and captivating performances, making it a thoroughly entertaining watch. The movie not only works as an intriguing comedy-mystery, but also provides a glimpse into the texture of life during the post-war era in Italy.

While centered around a serious crime investigation, And Suddenly It’s Murder excels in its light-hearted and humorous take on the circumstances, striking a balance that's characteristically representative of the golden age of Italian comedy films.

With an intriguing narrative, natural camaraderie among the distinguished actors, gripped by the unfolding mystery, and a thorough comedy, And Suddenly It’s Murder promises an experience that’s every bit as thrilling as it is entertaining. Through its vivid storytelling, intriguing plot, and outstanding performances, this film remains an iconic watch for lovers of classic Italian cinema.