Question 1

What real-life Italian law inspired the plot of Divorce Italian Style?

Accepted Answer

The film references Italy's 'honor killing' law, which provided mitigating circumstances for killing a spouse caught in adultery. This law wasn't abolished until 1981, 20 years after the film's release.

Question 2

How did director Pietro Germi get Stefania Sandrelli to cry for a difficult scene?

Accepted Answer

After multiple failed takes, Germi walked over and slapped Sandrelli twice in front of the crew. Her genuine embarrassment and tears were captured in the final shot.

Question 3

What unusual connection does the boatman in the final scene have to the film's production?

Accepted Answer

Giovanni Pluchino, who plays the boatman, was actually a newspaper correspondent reporting on the film's shooting. He was cast because he was 'young, good-looking and tanned.'

Question 4

Which major film festival first showcased Divorce Italian Style?

Accepted Answer

The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 1962, and also screened at the Locarno International Film Festival that same year.

Question 5

What happened to actress Daniela Rocca during the making of Divorce Italian Style?

Accepted Answer

Rocca was deliberately made less attractive for her role as Rosalia, and reportedly fell in love with director Pietro Germi during filming, leading to an unhappy affair and a suicide attempt.

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Divorce Italian Style

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