When Women Had Tails

When Women Had Tails is a fascinating 1970 Italian comedy film laced with elements of fantasy and prehistoric adventure. Directed by Pasquale Festa Campanile, the film stars the dynamic Senta Berger, Giuliano Gemma, and Frank Wolff, who come together to create an engaging and amusing narrative set in a world much different from ours.

As the title suggests, the film falls into the specific genre of "caveman" comedies, based in a primitive period when humankind was in its formative ages. In such films, spectacles such as dinosaur encounters and battles with sabertooth tigers are a staple and something the viewers look forward to. However, When Women Had Tails sets itself apart by focusing on the relationship between the two sexes, reconstructing ancient gender roles and paradigms in an incredibly amusing and entertaining way. The film uses humor and satire to question gender norms and stereotypes, creating narratives that can be understood and appreciated even in the current era.

When Women Had Tails follow the journey of Fulvio (Giuliano Gemma), who has grown up isolated with his six brothers, always believing that women did not exist. This notion changes dramatically when they come across Filli (Senta Berger), a mysterious, stunningly beautiful woman. Initially, their naivety leads them to believe that Filli is some unknown animal. However, they soon begin to understand and appreciate her, unknowingly stepping into the complicated and confusing world of gender dynamics.

The film portrays a gradual shift from a primitive understanding of the nature of man and woman to a more evolved perspective. The interactions between Fulvio and Filli embarks on exploring numerous themes of love, attraction, curiosity, and conflict. There is plenty of slapstick humor and comedic moments that make the movie fascinating and enjoyable, with unique and creative takes on 'love in the times of the caveman.'

Between boisterous laughs, the film plays out the remarkable journey, illuminating on the confusion, challenges, and hilarity that ensues when a group of 'primitive' men attempts to understand a creature as enigmatic and complex as a woman.

Senta Berger shines in her role as Filli, who remains mysterious and captivating throughout the film. Her character enters the scene as an enigma and remains so until the end, keeping the audiences guessing and creating a sense of intrigue that is hard to miss. Using her wit, charm, and beauty, Berger’s character wields considerable influence over the men, driving the narrative forward through engaging twists and turns.

Giuliano Gemma plays Fulvio, a character represented as independent, but also endearingly innocent. Spellbound by Filli’s charm, Fulvio’s reactions to this new, unfamiliar presence are nothing short of hilarious. Frank Wolff, on the other hand, adds another significant dimension to the narrative with his engaging performance.

Pasquale Festa Campanile's direction breathes life into the improbable setting of the 'stone age,' reminiscing a time beyond documented human history, while managing to balance humor, confusion, and romance immaculately. The director takes great care to keep the spirit of the time intact, while also presenting a new perspective on primitive routines, adroitly woven into the fabric of comedy.

When Women Had Tails is both entertaining and thought-provoking. By juxtaposing a primitive ethos against complex themes, the film manages to retain the simplicity characteristic of the prehistoric era while compelling the viewer to consider deeper societal implications. The fantastic chemistry between the lead actors, coupled with the enchanting prehistoric setting, makes the movie a truly enjoyable amusement, resembling a light-hearted satire of the modern-day romantic comedy.

Whether you are a fan of classic films, Italian cinema, or comedies in general, When Women Had Tails is a film that might grow on you. Its wholesome, amusing narrative, punctuated with humorous antics and unfamiliar settings makes it a delightful watch. Nevertheless, it also opens up a broader dialogue about gender, attraction, confusion, history, and evolution, making it a vibrant piece of cinematic art that successfully transcends genres.