Super Fantozzi (1986)

"Super Fantozzi" from 1986, directed by Neri Parenti, is an ambitious, almost philosophical comedic excursion into the history of humanity, seen through the eyes of one of the unluckiest characters in world cinema. The film challenges traditional narrative frameworks, offering the viewer a unique perspective on the phenomenon of failure and the absurdity of existence. Starring Paolo Villaggio, surrounded by a constellation of recognizable faces of Italian cinema, including Ennio Antonelli, Liu Bosisio, Luca Merenda, and Gigi Reder, promising not only laughter but also quality acting capable of elevating the most ridiculous situations.

Plot (spoiler-free)

The plot of "Super Fantozzi" begins on a biblical scale: a tired Lord, having barely finished his work on creation, creates Fantozzi, then Adam, Eve, and a companion for Fantozzi himself, the complete opposite of the beautiful Eve. The story takes an unexpected turn when Fantozzi, at Eve's request, plucks the forbidden fruit, leading to the expulsion of the couple from Paradise. Eve's true motive turns out to be a cruel joke. From this moment, Fantozzi's grand journey through the ages begins. He finds himself in prehistoric times, Ancient Rome, during the time of Jesus Christ, the Middle Ages, the era of Robin Hood, experiences the French Revolution, witnesses the 19th century, the 1930s in the USA, World War II, the "modernity" of 1986, and even looks into the future. Each segment is a new dose of misfortunes that invariably pursue our hero.

Why you should watch it

• Episodic Structure: A kaleidoscope of short, yet impactful stories, maintaining dynamism and preventing boredom.
• Historical Absurdity: An ironic look at significant historical periods, where Fantozzi becomes an unwitting participant or victim of events, reinterpreting them through the prism of his ill-fortune.
• Satire on Human Existence: Each era reveals new facets of bureaucracy, stupidity, injustice, with which the main character struggles (and loses).
• Visual Variety: The change of historical settings, costumes, and ambiance makes the film visually interesting.
• Universality of Humor: Through Fantozzi, the creators show situations of failure and struggle against fate familiar to many, making the film's humor understandable decades later.

Themes

The main theme of "Super Fantozzi" is the unchanging nature of human beings and the inevitability of failure. Fantozzi is the archetype of the "little man," doomed to suffering and ridiculous situations regardless of the era. The film explores satire on power and social institutions, showing how settings change, but the essence of human problems remains the same. From biblical expulsion to futuristic dystopias, the hero embodies the eternal struggle against injustice and stupidity, be it a divine decision or a societal structure. This is a deep, though wrapped in comedic form, reflection on the meaning of existence and how a person adapts or fails to adapt to a changing world.

Verdict

"Super Fantozzi" is a cinematic experiment where humor serves as a tool for a broader commentary on human destiny. Neri Parenti and his actors, led by Paolo Villaggio, created a film that makes you laugh at the absurd and simultaneously ponder how little human misfortune changes over millennia. This is a must-watch for those who appreciate bold, unconventional comedy that goes beyond the usual, and who seek in cinema not just entertainment but also an opportunity to look at the world from a new, ironic angle. Embark on this mad historical journey with Fantozzi – you won't be bored!