The story is set in Sicily in 1943 during the height of World War II. To evade the conflict, the protagonists, Franco and Ciccio, hide in the mountains. Their plan goes awry when two American paratroopers steal their clothes, leaving them with American uniforms in exchange.
The title itself sets up a mockery of serious American cinema, promising a lighthearted, chaotic Italian counterpoint to Hollywood dramas. Production and Reception Director: Marcello Ciorciolini Stars: Franco Franchi and Ciccio Ingrassia Release Year: 1969 Genre: Comedy/Satire
Indovina chi viene a merenda? (English: Guess Who's Coming for Snack? ) is a 1969 Italian satirical comedy directed by Marcello Ciorciolini and starring the iconic Sicilian comedy duo Franco Franchi and Ciccio Ingrassia. The film is a parody, playing on the title of the famous 1967 American drama Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (Indovina chi viene a cena?), but its content is far removed from the social drama of the original, focusing instead on absurdity and wartime farce. Plot Summary Indovina_chi_viene_a_merenda_1969_Altadefinizio...
The film relies heavily on the contrasting acting styles of Franco Franchi (impulsive, chaotic) and Ciccio Ingrassia (logical, trying to maintain control), a staple of Italian comedy cinema.
Like many Italian films of the era, the film uses the backdrop of WWII not for historical accuracy, but as a backdrop for absurdity, satire, and slapstick comedy. The story is set in Sicily in 1943
The film is regarded as a typical example of the Franco & Ciccio genre that was immensely popular in Italy during the 1960s and 1970s.
As a result, Franco and Ciccio are mistaken for Americans, captured by German soldiers, and deported to Germany. The plot then follows their escape, leading them to take refuge on a farm, where they become involved in a chain of chaotic misadventures. Ultimately, after being presumed dead by many, they survive the war, safe and sound in Germany. Key Themes and Stylistic Features The title itself sets up a mockery of
Indovina chi viene a merenda? serves as a piece of Italian pop culture history, showcasing the comedic style that dominated box offices during that period, focusing on quick wit, slapstick, and surreal scenarios rather than a linear, realistic plot. If you'd like more details on this, I can: Find specific or critical reception from 1969. Detail the careers of Franco and Ciccio . List other parody films released in Italy around that time. Let me know what you'd like to explore further. Indovina chi viene a merenda? (1969) - IMDb