Ridendo e Scherzando

Ridendo e Scherzando is a classic Italian comedy from the late 70s, directed by Marco Aleandri and featuring some of the era’s most recognised comedic talents. The movie stars Gino Bramieri, a veteran of the Italian theatre and vaudeville scene known for his hilarious comedic style, Walter Chiari, one of the most beloved Italian comic actors, and Luciano Salce, a director, writer and actor.

The film, whose title translates to "Laughing and Joking", is a vivid representation of Italian cinematic comedy during the period - replete with buffoonery, slapstick humour and characteristic Italian wit. The storyline offers a dazzling array of comical vignettes that showcase a delightful comic conjunction of foolishness and absurdity. The plot does not follow a singular contiguous stretched narrative rather it’s broken up into multiple joyful sketches, each one crafted to satirically depict the peculiarities of everyday Italian life.

The movie allows viewers to enjoy the fantastic comedic dynamic between Bramieri and Chiari. The duo brings a unique command of humour and timing which transforms even the simplest of scenarios into a laugh-out-loud situation, adding rich layers to the comic ambience. Their performances, intertwined with hilarious dialogues and quirky anecdotes, make it a joy for audiences who appreciate comedic artistry.

Gino Bramieri's stage background is clearly visible in his performance. He expertly employs his theatrical skills, enacting physical comedy with a deft touch of delicacy. His talent for portraying a wide spectrum of comical characters is evident, making each sketch interesting and diverse.

Walter Chiari, on the other hand, is known for his portrayal of natural charisma and foolish charm that often ends up in hilariously awkward situations. The viewers get to see the best of Chiari's distinctive style as he navigates through the series of misadventures, spreading laughter along the way.

Luciano Salce brings on board his unique comedic instinct and directorial vision. His presence not only amplifies the eccentricities but also provides a sense of balance to the humour scale. His acting is nuanced with elements of sarcasm and irony, creating a rather sophisticated comic atmosphere.

The cinematic style of Ridendo e Scherzando perfectly complements the satirical essence of the movie. The director intentionally favours exaggerated expressions and bold gestures, staying true to the tradition of Italian Commedia dell'arte. However, it is the minute, painstaking detailing of the characters' idiosyncrasies that set it apart from other comedic offerings.

The beauty of Ridendo e Scherzando lies in its simplicity. The film focuses on generating laughter through ordinary situations, expertly amplified by the cast's performance. This, combined with an array of colourful characters, makes the film a joyful ride through the world of Italian comedy.

The screenplay is peppered with one-liners, repartees and dialogues so quintessentially Italian that it provides a captivating insight into the culture, setting the tone for the hilarity that follows. The film exchanges fast-paced storytelling for a more relaxed narrative, creating a sense of anticipation for the next comedic punchline.

Despite being more than 40 years old, Ridendo e Scherzando has aged like fine wine. The humour offered by the film may be inherently Italian, but it has a universal appeal. It's a testament to the timeless quality of laughter, reminding us of the importance of looking at the lighter side of life.

Overall, Ridendo e Scherzando is a comedic gem from Italian cinema. This classic movie should be on your go-to list if you're a fan of European comedies, or simply the kind of person who appreciates good humour. It serves up a blend of well-executed comedy sketches, performances, scripting and direction that stands as a testament to the era of Italian cinematic comedy. The film is an uproarious adventure promising a hearty dose of laughter and, undoubtedly, an unforgettable experience.