MOVIE REVIEW
Frivolous Lola (Monella)
 (adult content) -     

Genre: Romance, Comedy
Year Released: 1998, 2024 Cult Epics 4K UHD
Runtime: 1h 45m
Director(s): Tinto Brass
Writer(s): Barbara Alberti, Tinto Brass, Carla Cipriani
Cast: Anna Ammirati, Patrick Mower, Max Parodi, Zuzana Martinková, Antonio Salines, Serena Grandi, Francesca Nunzi, Vittorio Attene, Laura Trotter, Carlo Reali
Where To Watch: available May 7, 2024; pre-order here www.cultepics.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: FRIVOLOUS LOLA explores a young woman's spirited challenge against conservative norms, set against the evocative landscapes of a post-war Italian village. Anna Ammirati’s portrayal of Lola infuses the film with charm and rebellion, making each scene a testament to youthful defiance and exploration. Being one of director Tinto Brass’ more tame films, we still get his signature eroticism and morally questionable themes, but in a way that comes off as “fun” instead of the somewhat darker themes some of his other films tackle.

In the serene yet sensually charged ambiance of a Lombard village, FRIVOLOUS LOLA crafts a narrative that's as much about the lush Italian setting as it is about the personal growth and freedom of its protagonist, Lola. Directed with a knowing wink by Tinto Brass, the film is a romantic comedy that balances erotic undertones with heartfelt storytelling.

This geographical setting (with its more profound connection to the story) complements Lola's curious and sensual nature. Lola, poised to marry the traditional baker’s son, Masetto (Max Parodi,) refuses to conform to the reserved sexual norms expected of her. Masetto becomes both an obstacle at times and a companion in her journey toward self-discovery.

The film excels in creating a provocative yet endearing dynamic between its characters. Lola’s interactions with her mother, Zaïra, played by Serena Grandi, add a deeper connection to the narrative, showcasing a past that both constrained and showed her the path forward. The screenplay challenges the traditional roles assigned to women and does so with humor and lightness that make the message accessible and entertaining.

The cinematography, featuring close-ups and sweeping landscape shots, enhances the erotic yet tasteful presentation of the story. This 4K restoration by Cult Epics enhances the experience; I can’t imagine the state of this film with some previous releases; based on some screenshots I saw while researching the film, it looked painfully washed out, with little attention to color correction or contrast. That’s where this release shines, looking stunning with a dynamic coverage of what the film initially had to offer.

As Lola enters her own through her flirtatious and daring escapades, she encounters André, a worldly traveler adept in the complexities of the heart, portrayed by Patrick Mower. This subplot spices up the narrative and introduces conflicts and resolutions that put Lola in a new mix in the film, highlighting her evolving understanding of love and fidelity.

The film enriches its setting with a genuine sense of place and time, anchoring the lighter elements of the story with historical gravitas. With its picturesque charm, the village is depicted in all its lively detail, forming the perfect stage for Lola’s adventures and misadventures, culminating in an unexpected ending.

FRIVOLOUS LOLA celebrates female empowerment while offering a snapshot of how we looked at life during different periods and provides a pleasant narrative combining romance with just the right balance of comedy. It invites viewers to a cinematic experience that is both reflective and jubilant, making it an ideal film for those who relish a story told with wit and warmth.

Bonus Materials
4K UHD BLU-RAY SPECIAL FEATURES
New 4K Transfer (from original negative) & Restoration with HDR
New DTS-HD MA 2.0 Stereo/5.1 Surround Italian & English
New Audio Commentary by Eugenio Ercolani & Nathaniel Thompson
Theatrical Trailers
BLU-RAY SPECIAL FEATURES:
New 4K Transfer (from original negative) & Restoration
New DTS-HD MA 2.0 Stereo/5.1 Surround Italian & English
New Audio Commentary by Eugenio Ercolani & Nathaniel Thompson
Theatrical Trailers
Interview with director Tinto Brass (2004)
Photo Gallery
PRINT
Double-sided sleeve with original Italian poster art
20-page illustrated booklet with liner notes by Eugenio Ercolani and Domenico Monetti
Slipcase
4K UHD first pressing Exclusive: 4x Repro Italian Lobby Card prints

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[photo courtesy of CULT EPICS, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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