Marriage Italian Style (1964)

In the turbulent heart of World War II Naples, a cunning businessman and insatiable womanizer, Domenico Soriano, is caught in a fateful encounter with a spirited seventeen-year-old courtesan, Filumena Marturano. Amid the chaos of an allied bombing, their paths intertwine in a brothel, igniting a clandestine affair that would span over two decades. As the war gives way to a post-war world, their fiery liaison intensifies. Filumena, no longer just the mistress but the unseen backbone of Domenico's flourishing empire, skillfully manages his diverse shops while he traipses around Naples. Their relationship, though tempestuous, is a dance of power and desire, each maneuvering to hold their ground. However, the equilibrium tilts when Domenico's roving eye settles on a young cashier at his bakery, stirring plans of matrimony. Filumena, cornered yet undeterred, orchestrates a masterful ruse of impending death, compelling Domenico to wed her in haste. But wedlock is a fragile thing, and soon Domenico annuls their hurried vows. Unveiling her most potent weapon, Filumena reveals the existence of three sons, nurtured in secret and raised by nannies. The twist in the tale? One of these boys is Domenico's illegitimate child. Yet Filumena keeps the identity of his biological son shrouded in mystery. As Domenico scours through every trick and subterfuge to identify his offspring, the lines blur, and he grapples with the possibility that all three could be his. Intrigue gives way to acceptance as Domenico willingly marries Filumena once more, stepping into a world of familial chaos and love that he had never envisioned. "Marriage Italian Style" is a riveting exploration of love, deception, and the lengths one would go to protect what is theirs.

Marriage Italian Style is a comedy movie featuring Sophia Loren.

Marriage Italian Style is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy and it's also available on Hoopla and Metrograph.

It is also possible to buy Marriage Italian Style on Amazon Video and Kino Now.