Di che segno sei?

Di che segno sei? is a quintessential Italian rom-com from 1975, full of implausible plots, elaborate set-pieces, and quirky characters. The title, translating to "What's Your Sign?", sets the tone for a cinematic journey that cleverly intertwines astrology into everyday life scenarios, resulting in both hilarious and unexpected situations. The film stars Paolo Villaggio, Mariangela Melato, and Adriano Celentano, three of Italy's most accomplished actors, who give captivating performances that superbly blend romance, humor, and a tinge of drama.

The storyline revolves around four intertwined tales, each representing a season of the year, and each featuring characters who are of different astrological signs. The film, directed by Sergio Corbucci, showcases his expertise in developing multiple storylines that beautifully converge at the end, providing a cinematic experience that artfully merges life's dramatic and comedic aspects.

Setting the pace of the film, Paolo Villaggio, whose well-drawn and humorous characters often meet at crossroads with fate, plays a role of an eccentric weather forecaster, Nando Moriconi. His life takes a funny turn when he becomes fixated on predicting both the weather and possible life outcomes based on horoscopes.

Adriano Celentano, a successful singer and actor known for his comedic style and his ability to adopt varied personas, impressively assumes the character of Alfredo. His character is a successful businessman, who's steadfast belief in astrology leaves him in unpredictable and hilarious situations. Celentano's vibrant and engaging performance is a highlight of the film.

Mariangela Melato, an actress known for her stunning versatility, creates magic on screen with her character, no-nonsense union representative Maria. She weaves a compelling tale of an individual who meets bouts of surprising fate on her path, triggered by horoscope predictions.

The film successfully combines different forms of comedy, resulting in an entertaining and lively viewing experience. Whether it is the insightful humor drawn from everyday life situations, absurd situations born out of belief in astrology, or the slapstick comedy elements, every moment is laden with charm and wit, compelling us to involuntarily break into laughter.

Aside from the impressive acting talent on display, Di che segno sei? is notable for its skillful direction. Corbucci, a director mostly known for his Spaghetti Westerns, demonstrates his versatility by successfully delving into romantic comedy genre. He seamlessly weaves together the individual stories, creating a tapestry of moments that reflect the simple truths of life: the joy, the heartache, and above all, the humor inherent in our day-to-day existence.

Adding to the cinematic appeal is the backdrop against which the film is set. The beauty of 1970s' Italy comes alive onscreen, lending the narrative an authentic flavor that pays homage to the era. The costumes and the set designs lend an air of nostalgia, taking us back to a simpler time where life was less complicated, and horoscopes played a vital role in the daily lives of people.

Furthermore, the music in Di che segno sei?, plays an integral role in setting the mood and tone of the film. Renowned composer Guido De Angelis creates a memorable soundtrack that captures the spirit of 70’s Italy while punctuating the crucial moments in the narrative with appropriate musical emphasis.

While Di che segno sei? is undeniably a delightful film on its own, the ultimate charm lies in its ability to lead the viewer to reflect on the intriguing notion of fate and free will. It challenges the audience to contemplate the role of Astrology in shaping the course of life, presenting it not only as a tool for predicting the future, but also as a catalyst that can sometimes ignite the most unexpected chain of events, leading to the most absurd – and humorous - situations.

Overall, Di che segno sei? is a charming, funny, warm-hearted film that is entertaining from beginning to end. It is a testament to Italian cinema's ability to create a masterpiece that combines comedy, romance, and a sprinkle of astrology. The fantastic performances from the leading actors and astute direction contribute to making the film a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.