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Johnny Stecchino

Johnny Stecchino (1991)

Oct 24, 1991 1h 55m Comedy

Good hearted but not very wordly-wise, Dante is happy driving the school bus for a group of mentally handicapped children, while feeling he is somehow missing out on life and love. So he is very excited when after nearly being knocked down by her car he meets Maria, who seems immediately enamoured of him. He is soon invited to her sumptuous Palermo villa, little suspecting that this is part of a plot. He bears an amazing likeness to Maria's stool-pigeon gangster husband and it would be convenient for them if the mobster, in the shape of Dante, was seen to be dead and buried.

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Directed by Roberto Benigni

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Roberto Benigni
Producer
  • Vittorio Cecchi Gori
  • Mario Cecchi Gori

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Thematic Analysis

Johnny Stecchino represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Roberto Benigni brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1991, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Johnny Stecchino took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 115 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 139 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
  • The film contains approximately 1062 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 1991, when this film was released:
  • Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
  • The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Johnny Stecchino shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Ariel, which focuses more on action than character development, Johnny Stecchino offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Notting Hill and Army of Darkness explore similar territory, Johnny Stecchino stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: October 24, 1991
  • Runtime: 1h 55m

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