Cast
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Tomas Milian
as Nico Giraldi / Ciu Ci Ciao
Bombolo
as Bombolo
Enzo Cannavale
as Vincenzo Quagliarulo
Olimpia Di Nardo
as Angela
Giacomo Furia
as giudice Enrico Arducci
Alessio Mereo
as Rocky, figlio di Nico
Marcello Martana
as commissario Trentini
Massimo Vanni
as brigadiere Gargiulo
Sergio Di Pinto
as Oscaretto
Sergio Tardioli
as vigile urbano
Aldo Ralli
as Impiegato della Dogana
Anna Cardini
as Silvana, amante di Papetti
Alfredo Rizzo
as marito di Silvana
Peter Boom
as Giovanni Papetti
Mimmo Poli
as Gasparotto
Crew
Director
- Bruno Corbucci
Producer
- Mario Cecchi Gori
- Vittorio Cecchi Gori
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Crime at the Chinese Restaurant represents a fascinating example of Crime/Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Bruno Corbucci 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 1981, 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 Crime at the Chinese Restaurant took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 73 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1981, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Crime at the Chinese Restaurant shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike La Dolce Vita, which focuses more on action than character development, Crime at the Chinese Restaurant offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Roman Holiday and American Fango explore similar territory, Crime at the Chinese Restaurant stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: November 19, 1981
- Runtime: 1h 35m
