Watch Mafioso

Mafioso is a 1962 Italian film directed by Alberto Lattuada and starring Alberto Sordi, Norma Bengell, Gabriella Conti, and Ugo Attanasio. The movie tells the story of a successful businessman from Milan named Antonio Badalamenti, who decides to go back to his hometown in the Southern region of Italy with his wife and two children. Antonio is excited to show his family where he was born and raised and to spend time with his old friends and acquaintances.

However, as soon as he arrives in his hometown, Antonio is faced with a much different reality than the one he had imagined. His family is welcomed warmly by the locals, but Antonio is thrown right into the criminal underworld of Sicily. His old friends are now members of the Mafia, and they expect him to participate in their illegal activities.

At first, Antonio is shocked and appalled by their requests, but he soon realizes that refusing their demands could endanger his own safety and the safety of his family. Antonio then becomes a Mafia associate, performing tasks for his criminal bosses in exchange for their protection.

As the story unfolds, Antonio must navigate the moral dilemmas of being a Mafia associate while trying to protect his family and maintain his successful business in Milan. The film is a social commentary on the power struggles and corruption that plagued Italy in the early 1960s, and it uses humor and satire to shed light on these complex issues.

Alberto Sordi delivers a captivating performance as Antonio, perfectly capturing the character's transformation from an innocent outsider to a jaded Mafia associate. Norma Bengell plays Antonio's wife, Marta, with grace and candor, showcasing the struggles of a woman caught in the crosshairs of her husband's past.

The film is set against the backdrop of the beautiful Italian countryside, with stunning vistas of the Mediterranean Sea and the rural landscapes of Sicily. The cinematography is top-notch, capturing the essence of Italy's idyllic countryside and the stark realities of its urban centers.

Mafioso is a thought-provoking and entertaining film that offers a glimpse into the dark side of Italy's history during the 1960s. It is a perfect blend of drama, comedy, and social commentary, with outstanding performances from its lead actors and masterful direction from Alberto Lattuada. The movie's powerful themes of morality and loyalty resonate even today, making it a timeless classic of Italian cinema.