The Monster . Weekly Alibi . 09-11-96

The Monster

DIRECTED BY: Roberto Benigni

REVIEWED: 09-11-96

This latest work by Roberto Benigni is the highest-grossing film in Italian history. The story of a clumsy shmuck mistaken for a serial-killing rapist may seem odd grounds for comedy, but Benigni's perfect slapstick timing works well in the strangest of circumstances. While not exactly PC by American standards, the film is much tamer than its plot would suggest. Hapless Benigni spends the entire film ducking his money-grubbing landlord and being trailed by a pretty undercover police officer. Benigni actually has the guts to turn this whole affair into a romantic comedy, and he succeeds in a Benny Hill sort of way. Not as intellectual as some film critics would like to think, but still pretty damn funny.

Other Films by Roberto Benigni
Life Is Beautiful

Film Vault Suggested Links
Shall We Dance?
Nelly and Monsieur Arnaud
When the Cat's Away

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