Avanti!
Avanti!

Avanti!

1972Movie138 minEnglish

A successful businessman travels to Italy to arrange for the return of his tycoon father's body, only to learn that dear old dad died with his longtime mistress.

Read Reviews

Insights

IMDb7.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes71%
Google Users88%
Director: Billy WilderGenres: Comedy, Romance

Plot Summary

Wealthy American businessman Wendell Armbruster Jr. travels to the Italian island of Ischia to claim the body of his recently deceased father. Upon arrival, he discovers his father had a secret mistress and a second life he never knew about. Initially intending to quickly settle affairs and return home, Wendell finds himself unexpectedly drawn into a passionate affair with the deceased's lover, Pamela Piggott, and the idyllic Italian lifestyle.

Critical Reception

Avanti! received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised Billy Wilder's direction, the sharp screenplay, and the performances of Jack Lemmon and Juliet Mills. While some found the plot a bit meandering, the film was largely appreciated for its witty dialogue and sophisticated humor, becoming a well-regarded entry in Wilder's filmography.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for Billy Wilder's signature witty dialogue and direction.
  • Jack Lemmon and Juliet Mills deliver charming and nuanced performances.
  • The film offers a delightful, if occasionally slow-paced, romantic comedy.

Google audience: Viewers appreciated the film's charm, humor, and the chemistry between the lead actors. Many enjoyed the beautiful Italian setting and the witty screenplay, finding it to be a charming and sophisticated romantic comedy.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Academy Awards for Best Director (Billy Wilder) and Best Supporting Actor (Jack Lemmon), and won the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location on the island of Ischia in the Bay of Naples, Italy, and much of the visual beauty of the island is showcased throughout the movie.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review