Lovers and Liars (1979)

Lovers and Liars Poster
Original Title: Viaggio con Anita

American actress on vacation in Italy falls for her friend's married Italian lover.

Overview
"Lovers and Liars" is a 1979 romantic comedy movie directed by Mario Monicelli. The film stars Goldie Hawn and Giancarlo Giannini in the lead roles, with Claudine Auger playing a significant part. Also referred to as "Viaggio Con Anita", the movie is set in Italy and showcases a short-term romantic experience in between 2 different characters.

Plot
The film "Lovers and Liars" provides an adventurous romance between Anita (Goldie Hawn), an American traveler who is lighthearted and sassy, and Guido (Giancarlo Giannini), an Italian business person who is lovely but troubled. Anita's carefree and reckless character contrasts greatly with Guido's careful and rather unethical disposition.

The plot unfolds as Guido lies to Anita about his relationship status, claiming to be single, while he is wed to Elisa (Claudine Auger). When Anita chooses to explore Italy and spontaneously welcomes Guido, he takes the opportunity and start a journey which he persuades himself is to go to an ill relative. The travels through the sensational Italian landscapes and different experiences supply ample room for interactions in between the characters, resulting in blossoming love and unpredictable circumstances.

Themes and Character Development
"Lovers and Liars" checks out the themes of deceptiveness, extramarital relations, love, and adventure. The film humorously weaves the numerous experiences and situations Anita and Guido find themselves in, offering a delightful expedition of human relationships and taking advantage of confusing scenarios.

Anita's character, with her audacity and search for enjoyment, produces circumstances that lead to comic misunderstandings. Nevertheless, they likewise give her an understanding of Guido's individual situation. Guido's character is a depiction of a man trying to rebel against his own life's mediocrity, using lies to escape from the reality of his loveless marital relationship.

Ending
The momentary fling in between Anita and Guido ends when Guido's spouse, Elisa, unexpectedly appears throughout their journey. Upon finding out about his lies, Anita feels betrayed and decides to end things with Guido. Both characters return to their respective lives, Anita to her experiences as a solo traveler and Guido to his dissatisfied marriage. Surprisingly, despite the complex scenarios and deceit, the mutual affection between Anita and Guido stays, and they part on great terms.

Reception
"Lovers and Liars" intriguingly catches the subtleties of a fleeting love affair and the adventure that includes it. Its cinematography brilliantly draws out the picturesque landscapes of Italy, producing a pleasing backdrop for the unfolding drama. The movie's extraordinary mix of romance, humor, and adventure gathered mixed reactions from fans and critics. While some admired the storyline and efficiencies, others felt the narrative lacked depth and focus. However, Hawn's joyful portrayal and the scenic Italian backdrop continue to be popular highlights.

In conclusion, "Lovers and Liars" is a light-hearted romantic comedy that guarantees a roller coaster of emotions, underpinned by considerable character development and the repercussions of deceptiveness in relationships.

Top Cast

  • Goldie Hawn (small)
    Goldie Hawn
    Anita
  • Giancarlo Giannini (small)
    Giancarlo Giannini
    Guido Massacesi
  • Claudine Auger (small)
    Claudine Auger
    Elisa Massacesi
  • Aurore Clément (small)
    Aurore Clément
    Cora
  • Laura Betti (small)
    Laura Betti
    Laura
  • Andréa Ferréol (small)
    Andréa Ferréol
    Noemi
  • Lorraine De Selle (small)
    Lorraine De Selle
    Jennifer
  • Renzo Montagnani (small)
    Renzo Montagnani
    Omero
  • Marne Maitland (small)
    Marne Maitland
  • Geoffrey Copleston (small)
    Geoffrey Copleston
    Automobilista
  • Carlo Monni (small)
    Carlo Monni