Almira Budd

Written by Almira Budd

Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

43-facts-about-the-movie-big-deal-on-madonna-street
Source: Criterionchannel.com

Big Deal on Madonna Street is a comedic Italian masterpiece that has captivated audiences since its release in 1958. Directed by Mario Monicelli, this iconic film has become a timeless classic in the world of cinema. Set in post-war Rome, the movie revolves around a group of bumbling criminals who plan a heist that goes hilariously awry. With its witty dialogue, brilliant performances, and clever plot twists, Big Deal on Madonna Street has earned its place in film history. In this article, we will delve into 43 fascinating facts about this beloved movie, shedding light on its production, reception, and lasting impact. So, sit back, grab some popcorn, and get ready to discover the secrets behind the making of Big Deal on Madonna Street!

Key Takeaways:

  • Big Deal on Madonna Street is a classic Italian comedy that influenced future heist films, captivated audiences worldwide, and left a lasting cultural impact on the world of cinema.
  • The film’s blend of comedy and heist elements, quirky characters, and timeless humor make it a must-watch for anyone who loves a good laugh and a captivating story.
Table of Contents

The Movie’s Original Title:

The original title of the movie Big Deal on Madonna Street is “I soliti ignoti” in Italian, which translates to “The Usual Unknowns” in English.

Genre and Release Date:

Big Deal on Madonna Street is a 1958 Italian comedy film directed by Mario Monicelli. It was released on June 6, 1958.

Inspiration for the Film:

The movie was inspired by the successful French film “Rififi” and aimed to create a similar comedic heist story.

A Story of Amateurs:

Big Deal on Madonna Street follows a group of amateur criminals who plan to rob a pawnshop in Rome.

The Star-Studded Cast:

The film features a talented cast that includes Vittorio Gassman, Marcello Mastroianni, Claudia Cardinale, and Renato Salvatori.

The Influence of Neorealism:

The movie incorporates elements of Italian neorealism, which focused on portraying the realities of post-war Italy.

Critical and Commercial Success:

Big Deal on Madonna Street was both a critical and commercial success, becoming one of the highest-grossing Italian films of the time.

Adaptations and Remakes:

The movie inspired several adaptations and remakes, including the Spanish film “¡Atraco a las tres!” and the American remake “Crackers.”

Iconic Comedic Moments:

Big Deal on Madonna Street is known for its hilarious sequences and comedic timing, which have become iconic in the comedy genre.

Influencing Future Films:

The film’s successful blend of comedy and heist elements influenced future films, such as the “Ocean’s” trilogy and “The Italian Job.”

Recognition at Cannes Film Festival:

Big Deal on Madonna Street was showcased at the 1958 Cannes Film Festival and received positive reviews for its comedic storytelling.

Memorable Quotes:

The film features several memorable quotes, including “Ours is a world of amateurs!” and “You need a reliable man, and I am not reliable!”

Cultural Impact:

Big Deal on Madonna Street has left a lasting cultural impact, becoming a classic in the Italian comedy genre and influencing future filmmakers.

Box Office Success:

The film’s box office success allowed the director, Mario Monicelli, to continue making acclaimed movies throughout his career.

The Art of Deception:

Big Deal on Madonna Street showcases the art of deception and manipulation as the characters plan their heist.

Insider Look at Criminals:

The movie offers an interesting portrayal of the lives of petty criminals and their humorous mishaps along the way.

Enduring Popularity:

Even after decades since its release, Big Deal on Madonna Street continues to captivate audiences and remains a beloved film in Italy.

Quirky Characters:

The movie introduces audiences to a variety of quirky and eccentric characters, each adding their own flavor to the story.

Satirical Tone:

Big Deal on Madonna Street takes a satirical approach, offering a lighthearted commentary on society and human nature.

Italian Cinema Gem:

Considered a gem in Italian cinema, the film showcases the talent and creativity of the Italian filmmaking industry during the late 1950s.

A Portrait of Rome:

The movie beautifully captures the essence of Rome, showcasing its streets, architecture, and vibrant atmosphere.

Cultural References:

Big Deal on Madonna Street references important cultural aspects of post-war Italy, providing a glimpse into the country’s history and social dynamics.

Musical Score:

The film features a memorable musical score composed by Piero Umiliani, perfectly complementing the comedic and dramatic moments.

Women in the Film:

Despite the mostly male-centered story, Big Deal on Madonna Street does include strong and dynamic female characters, such as Cardinale’s character Carmela.

International Recognition:

The movie gained international recognition, introducing Italian cinema to a wider audience and cementing its place in film history.

It Inspired Future Heist Films:

The film’s comedic approach to the heist genre influenced a new wave of heist films that followed in the years to come.

Elements of Farce:

Big Deal on Madonna Street incorporates elements of farce, using slapstick humor and exaggerated situations to create laughs.

Social Commentary:

Beneath the humor, the film offers subtle social commentary on themes such as poverty, unemployment, and the desire for a better life.

Award-Winning Art Direction:

The film’s meticulous art direction by Flavio Mogherini helped bring the streets of Rome to life and created an immersive setting for the story.

Filming Locations:

The movie was primarily shot on location in Rome, adding authenticity to the story and showcasing the beauty of the city.

Long-Lasting Legacy:

Big Deal on Madonna Street left a long-lasting legacy, influencing the future of Italian comedy and inspiring generations of filmmakers.

International Distribution:

The film was distributed internationally, reaching audiences worldwide and entertaining them with its unique blend of comedy and heist elements.

Character Development:

Despite the comedic nature of the film, Big Deal on Madonna Street provides glimpses into the characters’ backgrounds and motivations.

Symbolism in the Film:

The movie incorporates symbolism, using certain objects and actions to convey deeper meaning and enhance the storytelling.

Psychological Depth:

Beneath the laughter, the film delves into the psychological aspects of the characters, revealing their hopes, dreams, and insecurities.

International Remakes:

Big Deal on Madonna Street inspired numerous international remakes, with each country adding its unique cultural twist to the story.

Timeless Humor:

The film’s humor has stood the test of time, still eliciting laughter and entertaining audiences decades after its initial release.

A Mixture of Comedy and Drama:

Big Deal on Madonna Street strikes a perfect balance between comedy and drama, creating a captivating and emotionally resonant narrative.

Character Driven Plot:

The story revolves around the development of the characters and their interactions, showcasing the importance of strong character-driven storytelling.

Audience Engagement:

The film actively engages the audience through its relatable characters, witty dialogue, and unpredictable plot twists.

Cinematic Techniques:

The movie employs various cinematic techniques, such as clever editing and visual storytelling, to enhance the comedic and dramatic moments.

Conversation Starter:

Big Deal on Madonna Street serves as a great conversation starter among film enthusiasts, sparking discussions on comedy, heist films, and Italian cinema.

Timeless Classic:

Big Deal on Madonna Street has solidified its place as a timeless classic in the world of filmmaking, revered for its humor, charm, and lasting impact.

So there you have it, the 43 Facts about the movie Big Deal on Madonna Street. This iconic Italian comedy has left a lasting legacy in the world of cinema, showcasing the brilliance of Italian filmmaking and providing endless laughter for audiences around the globe. Whether you’re a fan of heist films or comedies, Big Deal on Madonna Street is a must-watch that will leave you entertained and captivated.

Conclusion

Big Deal on Madonna Street is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for decades. With its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and clever plot, this Italian comedy remains a staple in the world of cinema. From its humble beginnings to its success on the international stage, this movie has solidified its place in film history.

Whether you’re a fan of classic comedies or a cinephile looking to expand your repertoire, Big Deal on Madonna Street is a must-watch. Its blend of humor, suspense, and heart will keep you entertained from start to finish. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to laugh your way through this hilarious heist film.

FAQs

1. When was Big Deal on Madonna Street released?

Big Deal on Madonna Street was released in Italy on June 6, 1958.

2. Who directed Big Deal on Madonna Street?

The movie was directed by Mario Monicelli, an influential Italian filmmaker known for his contributions to the commedia all’italiana genre.

3. What is the plot of Big Deal on Madonna Street?

The movie follows a group of inept criminals who plan a heist on a pawnshop. As they bumble through their scheme, hilarity ensues.

4. Who are the main actors in Big Deal on Madonna Street?

The film features an ensemble cast, including Vittorio Gassman, Marcello Mastroianni, Renato Salvatori, Claudia Cardinale, and Tiberio Murgia.

5. Is Big Deal on Madonna Street available with English subtitles?

Yes, the movie has been released with English subtitles to make it accessible to a wider audience.

6. Has Big Deal on Madonna Street received any awards?

Yes, the film was nominated for the Palme d’Or at the 1958 Cannes Film Festival and received critical acclaim for its comedic brilliance.

7. Is Big Deal on Madonna Street a remake?

No, Big Deal on Madonna Street is not a remake. However, it has inspired several adaptations and influenced countless heist comedy films.

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