“Bianco, Rosso e Verdone” is an on the road comedy directed and performed by Carlo Verdone, released in 1981. Carlo Verdone is indeed considered a Roman and Italian icon. His contributions to Italian cinema and culture have earned him a special place in the hearts of many Italians. Thus contributing to a lasting impact on the country’s entertainment industry.

This film is often considered a satirical and humorous portrait of 1980s Italy, offering a glimpse into various aspects of Italian society at that time. The film’s title itself refers to the colours of the Italian flag: white, red and green.
The film features three parallel stories, each focusing on one of the three characters played by Carlo Verdone himself. Each character must go to Rome to vote for the elections. Either from abroad or from another Italian city, the film follows the three Italians in this electoral journey. Each of these stories reflects a different aspect of Italian society and its idiosyncrasies.
The first episode concerns Furio, a talkative and pedantic man who must reach Rome from Turin, along with his family. His wife Magda can’t stand him anymore and lives a life of resigned despair and psychotropic drugs.
The protagonist of the second episode is Mimmo, clumsy and naive. He goes on a journey with his grandmother, a bright and sharp old woman, always willing to mock him.
Last character is Pasquale, who leaves from Germany where he lives and works. Pasquale is a taciturn, easy-going and spendthrift man. Like Mimmo, however, he is so clumsy and naive that he suffers the Italian pitfalls such as theft, scams and even a beating.

“Bianco, Rosso e Verdone” is without any doubt a cult film. Some of his quotes have entered the common idioms, making the characters the perfect examples of Italian pop culture.
The film captures the Italian social and cultural atmosphere during the 80s. With its mix of tradition and modernity, the contrast between city and countryside, and the different perspectives of the various social classes. The film uses humour and satire to explore the various aspects of Italy and Italians, offering a funny and often critical look at the society.

Verdone is known for his ability to capture in a unique way all the elements of the everyday life. Many of his films are set in urban settings, but they also explore the nuances of life in other parts of the country.

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