Anna di Brooklyn

This is an unpretentious comedy that could have turned out even better had it been officially assigned to a major director like Vittorio De Sica (who "supervised" it) or Luigi Comencini, both of whom worked with Gina Lollobrigida in the delightful BREAD, LOVE AND DREAMS and BREAD,LOVE AND JEALOUSY (FRISKY). As it turned out, it is a pleasant affair, with its good moments, but what stands out is (how could it be otherwise?) Gina Lollobrigida herself, absolutely gorgeous at 30, the most beautiful curves in the history of film, full of energy, looking out for herself as a young widow from Brooklyn who returns to the old country. Her arrival in her native village must be the highpoint of the film, especially the moment she sings as she undresses and then stands in the afternoon sun, wrapped in a towel, after taking a bath, a picture of perfect loveliness. The soccer match is also hilarious and reveals what a good comedienne Lollobrigida is. The supporting cast is excellent, notably De Sica and the great Amedeo Nazzari. This film deserves to be in DVD format.