minion88.id – “Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow” (Italian: “Ieri, oggi, domani”) is a 1963 Italian-French comedy anthology film by the acclaimed director Vittorio De Sica. Known for his neo-realist films, De Sica explores a lighter, comedic side in this movie, which is both a critical and commercial success. The film showcases the dynamic performances of Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni, who portray different characters in three distinct stories, each capturing a slice of Italian life.
Film Structure and Storyline
The film is an anthology divided into three segments, each set in a different Italian city and focusing on the lives of diverse characters.
1. The First Story: Adelina of Naples
The opening segment centers on Adelina, a spirited woman living in the impoverished quarters of Naples. She sustains her family by selling black-market cigarettes. The narrative takes a humorous turn when Adelina, played by Loren, faces imprisonment for unpaid fines. However, a legal loophole prevents the arrest of pregnant women, leading to a series of comedic events as she and her husband Carmine, played by Mastroianni, strive to keep her perpetually pregnant.
2. The Second Story: Anna of Milan
In the second story, set in the bustling city of Milan, Loren plays Anna, a wealthy woman whose life revolves around luxury and social status. The plot unfolds during a car ride, where Anna’s superficiality and the crumbling facade of her marriage are revealed. Mastroianni plays Renzo, her lover, who becomes entangled in her world of affluence and emotional detachment.
3. The Third Story: Mara of Rome
The final segment shifts to Rome, where Loren portrays Mara, a high-class escort with an irrepressible charm. The story follows her interactions with a young seminarian who falls in love with her, much to the dismay of his family. Mastroianni’s character, Augusto, is a persistent but hapless suitor who becomes entangled in this comedic situation.
Themes and Cinematic Style
“Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow” is celebrated for its exploration of themes such as love, societal norms, and economic disparity. De Sica’s direction blends humor with social commentary, reflecting the complexities of Italian culture during the 1960s. The film’s episodic nature allows for a varied portrayal of Italian life, from the struggles of the working class to the frivolities of the wealthy.
Performance and Legacy
Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni’s chemistry is palpable throughout the film, contributing to its enduring popularity. Their ability to seamlessly transition between different characters and narratives showcases their versatility and comedic talent. The film received the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and remains a classic in world cinema.
Conclusion
“Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow” stands as a testament to Vittorio De Sica’s directorial prowess and his ability to capture the essence of Italian life through humor and humanism. The film’s blend of comedy, romance, and social observation continues to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless piece of cinema.