Case Chiuse (2011)
An Italian documentary tracing the history of brothels from ancient Pompeii to modern Europe, anchored by Italy's landmark 1958 Merlin Law.
Case Chiuse - Movie Information
- Original Title: Case Chiuse
- Release Year: 2011
- Directed by: Filippo Soldi
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Documentary
- Original Language: Italian
- Release Date (Theatrical): November 3, 2011 (Italy)
Case Chiuse - Plot
February 20, 1958: the Italian Parliament approved Law No. 75, the “Merlin Law”: the end of an institution of Italian society for ages: the brothel. The Italian writer Dino Buzzati likens the event to the fire in the library of Alexandria in Egypt. The brothel is an institution that has spanned the centuries, thru different aspects, different forms. It is an institution that, in Italy, at least officially no longer exists. But it is also an institution that in other countries, still exists. The doc offers a journey that will start from the ruins of Pompeii brothel to get to the lights of Artemis in Berlin, with its soft drinks and its attention to the well-being and to the erotic papyrus from the Egyptian Museum of Turin and the giant Paradise in Girona, that El Pais has called the biggest brothel in Europe.
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Case Chiuse - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Filippo Soldi
Main Cast
- Tinto Brass
- Lando Buzzanca
- Luciana Castellina
- Mariangela D'Abbraccio
- Piera Degli Esposti
- Lina Wertmüller
Case Chiuse - FAQs
What is Case Chiuse about?
Case Chiuse is a documentary journey through the history of brothels, sparked by Italy's 1958 Merlin Law that abolished them. The film travels from the ancient ruins of Pompeii to modern venues in Berlin and Girona, weaving together cultural, historical, and social perspectives on an institution that has existed for centuries.
What is the Merlin Law explored in Case Chiuse?
The Merlin Law, passed by the Italian Parliament on February 20, 1958, abolished state-regulated brothels in Italy. Named after Senator Lina Merlin, it was a landmark piece of legislation. The documentary uses this moment as its historical anchor, exploring what was lost, what changed, and how other countries handled the same question.
Who directed the documentary Case Chiuse?
Case Chiuse was directed by Filippo Soldi. The film reflects a thoughtful and culturally curious approach, guiding viewers through centuries of history across multiple countries and drawing on voices from Italian cinema, politics, and the arts to frame the subject.
Who appears in Case Chiuse?
The documentary features a fascinating lineup of Italian cultural figures, including filmmaker Tinto Brass, actor Lando Buzzanca, politician Luciana Castellina, actress Mariangela D'Abbraccio, stage and screen actress Piera Degli Esposti, and legendary director Lina Wertmüller, each bringing their own perspective to the subject.
When was Case Chiuse released?
Case Chiuse had its Italian release on November 3, 2011. The documentary premiered in Italy, where the subject of the Merlin Law and the abolition of state-regulated brothels carries particular historical and cultural resonance.
What locations are featured in Case Chiuse?
The documentary takes viewers on a wide-ranging geographical journey. Key stops include the ancient brothel ruins of Pompeii, the Artemis club in Berlin, the Egyptian Museum of Turin with its erotic papyrus collection, and the Paradise venue in Girona, Spain, which El País described as the largest brothel in Europe.
What genre is Case Chiuse?
Case Chiuse is a documentary film. It blends historical inquiry, cultural analysis, and personal testimony to examine the institution of the brothel across different eras and countries, making it both an informative and thought-provoking watch for audiences interested in social and cultural history.
Are there similar documentaries to Case Chiuse?
If you enjoyed Case Chiuse, you might also appreciate other culturally rich documentaries such as Capital in the Twenty-First Century, The Three Deaths of Marisela Escobedo, The Elephant Whisperers, Anna Nicole Smith: You Don't Know Me, and Love, Antosha — each offering a compelling, thoughtful look at society, history, and human experience.
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