Malicious (1973)
A darkly comic Italian classic in which a beautiful housekeeper sends an entire household into delirious, competing desire.
Malicious - Movie Information
- Original Title: Malizia
- Release Year: 1973
- Directed by: Salvatore Samperi
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Comedy
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Original Language: Italian
- Spoken Languages: Italian
- Release Date (Theatrical): March 29, 1973 (Italy ' VM14), February 1, 1974 (United States ' R), November 9, 1973 (Germany ' 18), December 31, 1973 (France ' TP)
- Alternative Titles: Malicia (PT)
- Production Companies: Clesi Cinematografica, DDL Cinematografica
- Production Countries: Italy
Malicious - Plot
A widower and two of his sons become infatuated by their beautiful housekeeper, and all three set out to seduce her using their own unique methods.
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Malicious - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Salvatore Samperi
Main Cast
- Laura Antonelli
- Turi Ferro
- Alessandro Momo
- Tina Aumont
- Lilla Brignone
- Pino Caruso
- Angela Luce
- Stefano Amato
- Gianluigi Chirizzi
- Grazia Di Marzà
Writers
- Alessandro Parenzo
- Salvatore Samperi
- Ottavio Jemma
Producers
- Silvio Clementelli
Malicious - FAQs
What is Malicious about?
Malicious follows Angela, a gorgeous housekeeper hired by a Sicilian widower, who quickly becomes the object of desire for the man and two of his sons. Each pursues her in his own way, turning the household into a battleground of lust, jealousy, and darkly comic obsession. It's a sharp, provocative Italian comedy with a wicked edge.
What does the ending of Malicious mean?
The ending of Malicious delivers a darkly ironic twist that reframes the entire film. Angela, seemingly the passive object of everyone's desires, ultimately turns the tables and secures her own position in the household — suggesting she was never as powerless as the men assumed. It's a sly commentary on manipulation and gender dynamics.
Where can you stream Malicious?
You can stream Malicious on Film Movement Plus. It's available as part of their flat-rate subscription, making it easy to catch this classic Italian comedy without any extra rental fees.
Is Malicious based on a true story?
No, Malicious is not based on a true story. It's an original screenplay written by Salvatore Samperi, Alessandro Parenzo, and Ottavio Jemma. The film draws on the social and sexual tensions of early 1970s Italian society, giving it a grounded, realistic feel despite being a work of fiction.
Who stars in Malicious alongside Laura Antonelli?
Laura Antonelli leads the cast as Angela, with Turi Ferro playing the widowed patriarch Ignazio and Alessandro Momo as the teenage son Nino. Tina Aumont, Lilla Brignone, and Pino Caruso round out a strong ensemble that brings this Sicilian household to vivid, chaotic life.
Why is Malicious rated R?
Malicious carries an R rating due to its frank sexual content, nudity, and mature themes including voyeurism, blackmail, and taboo family dynamics. The film was actually rated VM14 in Italy upon its original 1973 release, reflecting its provocative nature for audiences of all ages.
Who was the cinematographer for Malicious?
The film was shot by Vittorio Storaro, who would go on to become one of cinema's most celebrated cinematographers, winning three Academy Awards for Apocalypse Now, Reds, and The Last Emperor. His work on Malicious shows early glimpses of the visual mastery that would define his legendary career.
How was Malicious received by critics and audiences?
Malicious became a major box office hit in Italy and helped launch Laura Antonelli to stardom. Critics have praised it as one of the defining examples of the Italian commedia sexy all'italiana genre, admiring its sharp wit and Antonelli's magnetic performance. It remains a cult classic of 1970s European cinema.
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