Adua & Her Friends

This forgotten film from 1960 "Adua e le compagne" ("Adua and Her Friends"), was directed by Antonio Pietrangeli. The story of four independent-minded women who were destined to ruin by the inherently exploitative male-dominated society of 1950's Italy. After the Merlin law of 1959 closed down the last legal brothels of Rome, 'Adua' (played by the great Simone Signoret), and her fellow working-girls: 'Lolita' (Sandra Milo), 'Marilina' (Emanuelle Riva of "Hiroshima Mon Amour" 1959), and 'Caterina' (Gina Rovere), decided to pool their savings together and open a trattoria (in an old house), on the outskirts of the city. Leaving the past behind, they tried to make a fresh start, but their lives were exasperated when they were denied a permit because of their prior police records. Then 'Ercoli' (Claudio Gora), a former customer ( who was an archetype of the cretinous and predatory Italian-male of the era), offered to help them (through his connections and influence), under the sole condition that they continue in their old profession (in the rooms upstairs). Plus he wanted a sizable cut for himself (one million lira a month for rent and services), that made him their de facto pimp! Marcello Mastroianni was really good as fast-talking con-man 'Piero Salvagni', who became 'Adua's' love interest. The actors were all very good, but it was Simone Signoret who shined the most. The film was very honest in its depiction of these women (the story and screenplay was co-written by Ettore Scola "Brutti, sporchi e cattivi" 1976), who wanted nothing more than to have a chance at a normal life, but were cheated by an anachronistic and misogynist-society. The film had really good production values, with great cinematography by Armando Nannuzzi ("Il bell'Antonio" 1960, "Mafioso" 1962), and with a cool jazzy-score. Raro Video did an absolutely fantastic job on a full restoration of the film. The DVD comes in a nice protective case with a pull out sleeve and booklet. PAL format, Italian (Dolby Digital, Mono 2.0), with English subtitles, aspect ratio 1.66:1, NR 125 mins. At the current offering price, this is a real bargain for all serious lovers of Italian Cinema. Ciao!Love and Peace,Carlos Romero

Such a screen writing in a way is very special to modern cinematic , the Antonio Pietrangeli is better (he was under rated ) ,I think he Compare with other 1st - rate Italian movie detectors in same talents ,

This was an excellent movie about harsh life in Italy for those living a marginalized life. The ending was very sad.

What can I say...it is Italian cinema from 1960's (year 1960 to be exact) ...it does not get any better.Mastroianni and Signoret give great performances!!!The movie reminds me of Chabrol's "The Good Time Girls" aka "Les Bonnes Femmes" from the same year.SPOILER: Don't expect any happy endings...this is European cinema!!!

Seeing a ton of films since the 60's it always puts a smile on my face when I can still find a new gem. -- While I was mildly familiar with director Antonio Pietrangeli I had never heard of this Italian "Adua and her friends" film. -- While it's not Nights of Cabiria it still serves up very good film. -- I had also been looking for more Simone Signoret films back a few years ago so this seemed to fit the bill. -- Also having Marcello Mastriani in it was a nice plus. -- While the film deals with serious subject matter, it is never bogged down in gloom because of it and has plenty of positive, upbeat poignant moments. -- Pietrangeli keeps things energetic and popping. -- This film offers good writing, directing, acting and it doesn't drag. -- This film delivers. -- I for one am not always in the mood for a more esoteric and heavy film like Fellini or DiSica have done. I was very grateful for the other 3 reviewers whose reviews helped me to pull the trigger and add it to my library. -- So I hope my review helps others considering purchase likewise. -- Give it a go. -- I think you'll be glad you did.