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Totò vs the Four

Totò vs the Four

1963

Director

Steno

Runtime

94 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

Synopsis

The day of Chief Constable Saracino begins badly when his new car is stolen. Then, in his office, he meets Alfredo Fiori who believes that his wife and her lover, a veterinary, are trying to murder him.

Where to Watch

Diversity & Representation

Overall Score

2.2/10

Limited


Category Breakdown

LGBTQ+ Representation

Minimal

The film operates within a traditional heteronormative framework. There are no narratives or identities present that challenge these structures, as the comedy focuses on heterosexual relationship dynamics.

Gender Representation

Limited

The narrative is heavily male-centric, prioritizing a comedic ensemble of men. Female characters serve primarily as secondary figures or plot catalysts rather than independent agents.

Racial & Ethnic Diversity

Minimal

The cast and setting are largely homogeneous, reflecting the specific Italian cultural context of the era. The film does not engage with racial or ethnic diversity.

Religious & Cultural Diversity

Limited

The story functions as a standard comedic romp without critiquing Western institutions or religion. Criminal elements are used for slapstick humor rather than exploring systemic social issues.

Disability Representation

Limited

There is no meaningful portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities. Characters are presented through comedic archetypes, which risks reducing depth to mere caricature.

Strengths

  • Provides a foundational look at the transition toward commedia all'italiana.
  • Utilizes classic slapstick archetypes effective for the era's comedic style.

Areas for Improvement

  • Lacks representation of non-cisnormative identities or diverse gender roles.
  • Features a homogeneous cast with minimal racial or ethnic diversity.
  • Female characters are relegated to secondary roles rather than central agency.
  • Fails to engage with neurodivergent or physical disability representation.

AI Analysis

Steno’s 1963 comedy is a product of its time, adhering to the social and narrative hierarchies of mid-20th-century Italy. It relies on slapstick archetypes and a homogeneous cast to drive its farcical energy. The film lacks intersectional depth, focusing on traditional domestic anxieties and male-driven eccentricity. It does not attempt to subvert patriarchal roles or address broader social complexities like race or systemic inequality. Ultimately, the work functions as a period-specific entertainment piece that maintains conventional moral frameworks and traditional gender hierarchies.

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