Il contratto (1981)
A darkly comic Italian gem from Eduardo De Filippo, where resurrection comes with strings — and a signature.
Il contratto - Movie Information
- Original Title: Il contratto
- Release Year: 1981
- Directed by: Eduardo De Filippo
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Comedy
- Original Language: Italian
- Production Countries: Italy
- Release Date (Theatrical): April 6, 1981 (Italy)
Il contratto - Plot
Geronta Sebezio is revered by his fellow villagers for his miraculous ability to bring the dead back to life. However, anyone who wishes to benefit from this gift must sign a contract.
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Il contratto - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Eduardo De Filippo
Main Cast
- Eduardo De Filippo
- Gianni Crosio
- Luigi Uzzo
- Marzio Honorato
- Vincenzo Salemme
- Luca De Filippo
- Franco Angrisano
- Angela Luce
Writers
- Eduardo De Filippo
Il contratto - FAQs
What is Il contratto about?
Il contratto follows Geronta Sebezio, a village elder celebrated for his seemingly miraculous power to resurrect the dead. The catch: anyone seeking this gift must first sign a binding contract. The film blends dark comedy with theatrical flair, exploring themes of greed, mortality, and the price of miracles.
Who directed Il contratto?
Il contratto was directed by Eduardo De Filippo, the legendary Neapolitan playwright, actor, and filmmaker. De Filippo also wrote the screenplay and stars in the film, making it a deeply personal project rooted in his long theatrical tradition of tragicomic storytelling.
Is Il contratto based on a theater play?
Yes, Il contratto originates from Eduardo De Filippo's theatrical work. De Filippo was one of Italy's most celebrated playwrights, and many of his films were adaptations or extensions of his stage productions, blending Neapolitan theatrical tradition with cinematic storytelling.
Who are the main actors in Il contratto?
The cast of Il contratto includes Eduardo De Filippo, Gianni Crosio, Luigi Uzzo, Marzio Honorato, Vincenzo Salemme, Luca De Filippo, Franco Angrisano, and Angela Luce. Notably, both Eduardo and his son Luca De Filippo appear together, as does a young Vincenzo Salemme.
When was Il contratto released?
Il contratto was released on April 6, 1981, in Italy. The film represents one of Eduardo De Filippo's later directorial works, arriving near the end of his prolific career as a filmmaker, playwright, and actor in Italian cinema and theater.
What genre is Il contratto?
Il contratto is an Italian comedy film. True to Eduardo De Filippo's signature style, it blends humor with darker, more philosophical undertones — a tragicomic sensibility rooted in Neapolitan theatrical tradition that examines human nature through wit, irony, and sharp social observation.
Where can I stream Il contratto?
Streaming availability for Il contratto varies by region and platform. You can check current viewing options, including any rental, purchase, or subscription streaming services available in your area, by visiting the JustWatch page for the film.
What are similar movies to Il contratto?
If you enjoyed Il contratto, you may also appreciate L'Invitation (2020), Le Médecin malgré lui (1973), Twentieth Century (1934), and La dama duende (1945). These films share a similar theatrical, comedic sensibility and explore human folly through sharp wit and classic storytelling.
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