High Society Unmasked: a Tale of Intrigue, Suspense, and Social Commentary

Read Time:3 Minute, 34 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Sunday Woman (La donna della domenica)
–

Genre: Crime, Mystery, Comedy
Year Released: 1975, 2023 Radiance Films Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 49m
Director(s): Luigi Comencini
Writer(s): Carlo Fruttero (novel,) Franco Lucentini (novel,) Agenore Incrocci (screenplay,) Furio Scarpelli (screenplay)
Cast: Marcello Mastroianni, Jacqueline Bisset, Jean-Louis Trintignant
Language: Italian with English subtitles
Where To Watch: available to purchase now
UK – www.radiancefilms.co.uk
US – www.mvdshop.com

RAVING REVIEW: Get ready for a whirlwind of mystery, full of intrigue, and biting social commentary in THE SUNDAY WOMAN. Set amidst the high society in Turin, Italy, this gripping film follows the investigation of a gruesome murder that uncovers the city's aristocracy's dark secrets. The movie features a stellar cast led by Jacqueline Bisset, Jean-Louis Trintignant, and Marcello Mastroianni.

Luigi Comencini's direction brings a unique blend of suspense and humor (at times dry) to THE SUNDAY WOMAN, highlighting the remarkable talent of its lead actors. This film created the roots for such modern-day classics as KNIVES OUT, BAD TIMES AT THE EL ROYALE, and the remake of MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS.

THE SUNDAY WOMAN has its challenges. The pacing of the police investigation seems inconsistent, culminating in an unexpectedly abrupt resolution after a slow burn to the start. Furthermore, certain story aspects still need to be explored, sometimes leaving more questions than answers. This is okay, but it's hard to ignore when they seem vital to the story.

However, the film's charm lies in its critique of social issues. It tackles themes such as adultery, prostitution, and homosexuality at a time when these topics were nearly taboo. These privileged individuals, who pretend to be intellectually superior, have their closets emptied. Some of the issues in the film were handled with a lens of the day, so you have to remember this was made nearly 50 years ago.

The on-screen chemistry between Bisset and Mastroianni is one of the film's high points; it feels so natural that you’d be mistaken if you thought they had been lifelong acquaintances. While some call this Giallo film, THE SUNDAY WOMAN offers a unique blend of elements that further it as more than that. The movie looks at the ethical disparities within the justice system, providing a fascinating insight into the complexities of Italy's social structure.

While it may have imperfections, the movie's absorbing plot, skilled direction, and extraordinary performances make it a worthy watch for a diverse audience – not just cinephiles. If you're craving a riveting and thought-provoking dive into the heart of Italian society, look no further than THE SUNDAY WOMAN. This film will entertain you with its captivating mystery and provoke reflection on our world's darker aspects.

SPECIAL FEATURES:
– 2K restoration of the film from the original negative, presented in the original 1.33:1 and an alternate 1.85:1 widescreen presentation
– Original uncompressed mono PCM audio
– Newly filmed interview with academic and Italian cinema expert Richard Dyer, who looks at The Sunday Woman (2022, 18 mins)
– Archival interview with cinematographer Luciano Tovoli who discusses his work on the film (2008, 22 mins)
– Newly filmed interview with academic and screenwriter Giacomo Scarpelli, who discusses the life and work of his father, Furio Scarpelli, and his writing partner Agenore Incrocci (2022, 36 mins)
– Archival French TV interview with Jean-Louis Trintignant in which the actor discusses The Sunday Woman (1976, 4 mins)
– Trailer
– Reversible sleeve featuring designs based on original posters
– Limited edition 24-page booklet featuring new writing on the film by Mariangela Sansone and a reprint of an archival piece on the film
– Limited edition of 2000 copies, presented in full-height Scanavo packaging with removable OBI strip leaving packaging free of certificates and markings

For more reviews, please visit – https://linktr.ee/Overlyhonestmoviereviews for more info.

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of RADIANCE FILMS/MVD ENTERTAINMENT]