Cast
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Rita Pavone
as Rita
Giancarlo Giannini
as Paolo Randi
Peppino De Filippo
as Carmelo Pappagone
Nino Taranto
as Director of education
Bice Valori
as Luigina, the school director
Turi Ferro
as Sicilian professor
Milena Vukotić
as Dance instructor
Giusi Raspani Dandolo
as
Laura Efrikian
as Lili
Mirella Pamphili
as Mrs. Bonfanti
Vittorio Congia
as Ciccio
Ugo Fangareggi
as Wolfgang
Gino Bramieri
as A drunkard
Sergio Ferranino
as Paolo's friend
Teddy Reno
as Himself
Crew
Director
- Lina Wertmüller
Writer
- Lina Wertmüller
- Sergio Bonotti
Producer
- Gilberto Carbone
- Sergio Bonotti
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Rita the Mosquito represents a fascinating example of Music 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 Lina Wertmüller 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 1966, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Rita the Mosquito took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 464 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1966, when this film was released:
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Rita the Mosquito shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike One Last Dance, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Rita the Mosquito offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Little Dickie and Grease 2 explore similar territory, Rita the Mosquito 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: September 30, 1966
- Runtime: 1h 50m
