The Joy of Living (1961)

The Joy of Living Poster
Original Title: Che gioia vivere

Ulisse is a naive young man out looking for a job after being released from the army. He drops the offer he gets from a group of fascists to go in with the Fossatis, a family of anarchists (unknown to him).

Film Introduction
"The Joy of Living" (French: La jouissance de vivre), also known by its Italian title, "Che gioia vivere", is a 1961 Italian-French film directed by René Clément. It stars the outstanding movie and phase French actor Alain Delon, and Italian starlet Barbara Lass and Maj-Britt Nilsson, a Swedish actress. The movie is basically a drama set in early 20th-century Venice, exploring styles of social order and political perfects, however takes in funny and romance as well.

Plot Summary
The story revolves around Ulisse (played by Alain Delon), an ignorant young man, who shows up in Venice trying to find a task. After an amazing stroke of luck, he discovers himself employed by the Salina household, a grand Venetian house with an eccentric family. Ulisse is thrown into a disorderly world, filled with political ideas and debates, self-important family members, and an unsettled murder secret that shrouds the Salina family.

The wealthy household's head is a lawyer understood for his political goals and innovative concepts that oppose the present social order. Ulisse finds himself influenced by the home's beliefs and slowly ends up being politically conscious. He moves from a naive outsider to an included individual in the different family disputes and political disputes that occur within the Salina house, showing a considerable character development.

Romantic Engagements
Ulisse discovers himself drawn to the two children of the Salina household, which includes a romantic component to the story. His preliminary love for the lovely child, Cinzia, rapidly develops into an intricate love triangle when he establishes feelings for the intelligent and intricate Franca. This love triangle creates stress throughout the narrative, exposing Ulisse's struggle with his feelings and his changing perception of love and relationships.

Turmoil and Resolve
The general environment of the film, solidified by the debates surrounding the household, magnifies when the unsettled murder story resurfaces. The past murder of the Salina family's reporter, Gildo, becomes an appealing subplot. As the film advances, Ulisse finds himself involved in this murder examination, complicating his life even further.

Ultimately, Ulisse is enlightened with the awareness that life's pleasure doesn't entirely originated from a life of ease and prosperity however is obtained through comprehending the world's intricacies and contradictions. He discovers his happiness through self-discovery, checking out various measurements of life, and personal development.

Styles and Conclusion
"The Joy of Living" does an exceptional job of blending comedy, love, and drama, resulting in an appealing and engaging story. It skillfully represents Venice in the early 20th century, including depth to the setting and the story's backdrop. The plot includes strong themes of political ambitions, social expectations, and individual growth, providing a critiqued portrayal of societal standards at the time.

The film likewise wisely explores young Ulisse's transformation from an ignorant and innocent newbie to a politically mindful and emotionally intricate person. The subplot of the murder adds another layer of thriller and drama, making the movie an engaging watch. The film, although set in a historical context, manages to resonate with numerous contemporary styles, making it a timeless classic.

Top Cast

  • Alain Delon (small)
    Alain Delon
    Ulisse Cecconato
  • Barbara Lass (small)
    Barbara Lass
    Franca Fossati
  • Gino Cervi (small)
    Gino Cervi
    Olinto Fossati
  • Rina Morelli (small)
    Rina Morelli
    Rosa Fossati
  • Ugo Tognazzi (small)
    Ugo Tognazzi
    Anarchist
  • Paolo Stoppa (small)
    Paolo Stoppa
    Hairdresser
  • Gastone Moschin (small)
    Gastone Moschin
    le curé
  • Fanfulla (small)
    Fanfulla
  • Marta Timar (small)
    Marta Timar
    (uncredited)
  • Giuliana Farnese (small)
    Giuliana Farnese
    Anarchist (uncredited)