Venetian Lies (1981)
An Italian comedy-drama about a lonely teenager's search for a family, featuring Max von Sydow and a score by Ennio Morricone.
Venetian Lies - Movie Information
- Original Title: Bugie bianche
- Release Year: 1981
- Directed by: Stefano Rolla
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Comedy, Drama
- Runtime: 1h 30m
- Original Language: Italian
- Spoken Languages: Italian
- Release Date (Theatrical): June 25, 1981 (Italy)
- Alternative Titles: Bugie bianche (IT), White Lies (US), Footloose (UK)
- Production Companies: Kumada Cinematografica
- Production Countries: Italy
Venetian Lies - Plot
A lonely 17 year old boy is looking for a couple who is ready to adopt him.
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Venetian Lies - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Stefano Rolla
Main Cast
- Max von Sydow
- Virna Lisi
- Ronni Valente
- Maria Pia Colonnello
- Roberto Milani
- Carlo Russo
Writers
- Stefano Rolla
- Leros Pittoni
- Silvia Napolitano
Producers
- Alvaro Mossi
Venetian Lies - FAQs
What is Venetian Lies about?
Venetian Lies follows a lonely 17-year-old boy on a heartfelt search for a couple willing to adopt him. The film blends comedy and drama to explore themes of belonging, family, and the lengths a young person will go to find a place to call home.
Who are the main actors in Venetian Lies?
The film stars Max von Sydow and Virna Lisi as Marcello and Luisa Herrighe, the couple at the center of the story, alongside Ronni Valente as Renato, the teenager seeking adoption. It's a compelling trio that brings real warmth and depth to the film.
Who directed Venetian Lies?
Venetian Lies was directed by Stefano Rolla, who also co-wrote the screenplay alongside Leros Pittoni and Silvia Napolitano. The film features a score by the legendary Ennio Morricone, adding a memorable musical dimension to this Italian comedy-drama.
Why did Renato lie to find a family in Venetian Lies?
Renato's deceptions stem from a deep longing for connection and belonging. Rather than simple mischief, his white lies reflect the desperation of a teenager who feels invisible and unwanted — a poignant emotional core that gives the film its bittersweet, tragicomic edge.
What genre is Venetian Lies?
Venetian Lies is an Italian comedy-drama. It balances lighthearted, humorous moments with genuine emotional weight, making it a film that entertains while also touching on universal themes of loneliness, identity, and the desire for family and belonging.
When was Venetian Lies released?
Venetian Lies had its Italian theatrical release on June 25, 1981. The film was produced by Kumada Cinematografica and is also known internationally as White Lies in the US and Footloose in the UK, and as Bugie bianche in its original Italian title.
What is the Ennio Morricone score like in Venetian Lies?
Ennio Morricone composed the music for Venetian Lies, bringing his signature blend of emotional sensitivity and melodic invention to the film. His score complements the story's tender, bittersweet tone, adding a layer of warmth and melancholy that elevates the film's quieter moments.
Are there movies similar to Venetian Lies?
If you enjoyed Venetian Lies, you might also like SubUrbia (1997), Landline (2017), or Bangla (2019) — films that similarly explore youth, identity, and the search for connection. Match (2014) and A Dog Year (2009) also share that intimate, character-driven dramatic sensibility.
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