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From the iconic intercoms of Rome to the sun-drenched shores of Sicily, the locations featured in the film Il Piccolo Diavolo invite you on a picturesque journey through Italy’s most charming landscapes. Directed by the talented Roberto Benigni, this delightful comedy weaves together humor, absurdity, and a touch of poetry, crafting a narrative that whisks viewers away to some of Italy’s most iconic cities. Are you ready to explore these remarkable sites, each with its own story to tell, and discover how they contribute to the film’s enchanting atmosphere?
Rome: The Heart of the Film
Rome takes center stage in many unforgettable scenes of Il Piccolo Diavolo, showcasing breathtaking vistas that avid fans will instantly recognize. One particularly memorable moment features the priest, played by Benigni, ringing every doorbell in a building—a scene shot at Via Marotta 6, the very same location where Abatantuono lived in I Fichissimi. Did you know that the intercoms in this comedic sequence weren’t real? They were specially crafted props designed for the hilarious “forgotten license” gag!
Another standout scene occurs at ‘Ristorante Benvenuto,’ located on Via di San Giovanni in Laterano, just a stone’s throw from the Colosseum. Here, Padre Maurizio shares a meal with the unexpected visitor, Giuditta, in a setting that beautifully captures the essence of Roman dining culture. And let’s not overlook Via Labicana, near the staircase of Via Fortunato Mizzi, where a humorous exchange unfolds between Matthau and Benigni, filled with the delightful tension of dodging an oncoming taxi. Can you picture the chaos?
Oh, and how could we forget the moment on viale Semiramide? Here, the little devil finds himself in a rather undignified situation, much to the dismay of Matthau’s character. This area, currently undergoing restoration, still recalls the notorious “colossal pee” moment that has become a fan favorite. Isn’t it fascinating how these locations add layers to the film’s humor?
Tuscany: A Blend of Spirituality and Comedy
As we venture into Tuscany, the film showcases some of its most captivating locales. The Church of San Zeno, located on Via San Zeno in Pisa, serves as the backdrop for Padre Maurizio’s confession in the film’s opening scene. Its understated architecture perfectly sets the stage for the priest’s character before Benigni’s antics disrupt the serenity. Isn’t it intriguing how a simple setting can enhance a character’s story?
The “official church” of Padre Maurizio is the stunning Certosa di Calci, just outside Pisa. With its monumental cloister and baroque interiors, this impressive venue contrasts beautifully with Giuditta’s escapades. The film cleverly alternates between the Certosa and the Church of San Zeno, creating a seamless montage that unites these two distinct yet beautifully complementary locations. Did you feel the connection between the sacred and the absurd?
Sicily: Romance and Whimsy in Taormina
As we journey to Sicily, the film’s heart beats in Taormina, a picturesque town in the province of Messina where Benigni and Nicoletta Braschi deliver some of the film’s most romantic and whimsical moments. The narrative kicks off at the Taormina-Giardini train station on Via Nazionale, where Nina and the professor eagerly await a taxi. Inspired by a billboard, Giuditta playfully mimics a man carrying a woman on his shoulders, leading to wonderfully unexpected consequences. Can you imagine the laughter that ensues?
Nina stays at the legendary San Domenico Palace Hotel, nestled in Piazza San Domenico 5. This former convent, now transformed into a luxurious hotel surrounded by palm trees and lush gardens, captures the magic and elegance of the location perfectly. Doesn’t that sound like a dream getaway?
We can’t overlook the Wunderbar in Piazza IX Aprile, where Nina playfully kisses a stranger, stirring up delightful chaos among patrons. This very bar also appeared in a later film, Pop Corn e Patatine, starring Nino D’Angelo, further cementing its place in cinematic history. Isn’t it exciting to see how a location can weave itself through various stories?
Lastly, on Via Pietro Rizzo, a charming little square once housed the bar where Nina shares her fondness for various things with Giuditta, all while the Palazzo Duca di Santo Stefano looms in the background. And who could forget Via dei Fabi, where Giuditta’s attempt to imitate Nina leads to a serendipitous kiss with a random man, sparking a delightful chain reaction orchestrated by fate? What a magical moment!
Every location in Il Piccolo Diavolo not only enhances the humor and narrative but also celebrates the beauty and cultural richness of Italy. Each scene is steeped in history and tradition, inviting viewers to enjoy a comedy while appreciating the artistry of storytelling that intertwines the picturesque elements of Italian life. So, grab your metaphorical passport and immerse yourself in the delightful journey of this beloved film—are you ready to explore?