Bawdy Tales

Bawdy Tales, also known in its original Italian title "Storie scellerate", is a 1973 Italian historical drama film overflowing with ribald humor and lavishly visual storytelling. The film’s director, Sergio Citti, presents a grand cinematic spectacle that artfully blends the seemingly contradictory genres of comedy and tragedy. The feature film boasts of an incredible ensemble led by the likes of Ninetto Davoli, Franco Citti, and Nicoletta Machiavelli. These leading actors deliver memorable performances, infusing the narrative with stirring emotional depth and grounding the more fantastical elements of the plot.

Bawdy Tales is set in 17th Century Italy and follows the journeys of two destitute vagabonds, played by Ninetto Davoli and Franco Citti. Their lives are marked by hardship, dogged by bad luck, and marred by their reputations as social outcasts. Their personal stories of survival and resilience become the narrative driver, with an emphasis on the need for comradery and unity in the face of immense hardships. Their search for a better life leads them through a series of wild, raucous, and at times lewd adventures, providing the fodder for the bawdy tales that become the movie's namesake.

Throughout their adventure, the duo encounters a wide array of unique characters representing various social classes and spheres of life in 17th century Italy. This provides a rich tapestry for Citti to weave his intricate narrative, intermingling the distinct threads of humor, wit, and tragedy. It also gives the audience a glimpse into society's structure and dynamics during this time and highlights the rich diversity of thought that marked the period. Among the characters they meet is a beautiful and somewhat mysterious woman, played by Nicoletta Machiavelli. Her character adds a layer of intrigue and romantic tension to the story.

Sergio Citti directs with a highly stylized flair, creating a visual spectacle reminiscent of Renaissance-era painting. His use of color, lighting, and composition enriches the storytelling and further propels the narrative. Under his visionary direction, Bawdy Tales becomes more than just a movie about two vagabonds. It transforms into an exploration of human nature, societal conventions, and the universal longing for prosperity and happiness.

The characters are depicted with a zest for life, regardless of their circumstances. They indulge in activities that reflect human desires and passions. The humor is often presented with sexual innuendos, layered within the dialogues and actions, which creates a spirit of daring audacity in the film's tone. This technique allows Bawdy Tales to discuss sensitive topics openly, pushing the boundaries of societal norms reminiscent of traditional folk and tavern tales. It is this infusion of coarse, rustic humor that makes Bawdy Tales a remarkable film of its time.

The collaborative screenplay written by Vincenzo Cerami, Sergio Citti, and Pier Paolo Pasolini enhances the movie's earthy humor. The dialogues are sharp, filled with brilliant wit, and at times unabashedly vulgar. It brings out the flavor of the 17th century dialect while also indulging in a contemporary take on olden societal norms creating a dialogical mix that vibrates with every spoken word on screen.

The musical score by Ennio Morricone adds another dynamic layer to Bawdy Tales. The legendary composer employs a mixture of traditional Italian folk music to create the atmospheric soundscape. The music underscores the characters' journeys and sets the rhythm for the movie.

In conclusion, Bawdy Tales is a distinctive cinematic creation that navigates through the essence of comedy and tragedy to bring forth an intriguing narrative. This film is not just a candid portrayal of 17th Century Italian life; it is a showcase of the universally enduring human spirit. The performances by the cast, notably Ninetto Davoli, Franco Citti, and Nicoletta Machiavelli, aggrandize the narrative, making it compelling and staying true to the film's title. Sergio Citti's directorial prowess produces a truly captivating piece of art that effectively balances humor and social commentary. Bawdy Tales, despite its controversial content at times, has managed to carve out a unique place for itself in the annals of Italian cinema.