In Luigi Comencini’s 1975 film La Donna della Domenica (The Sunday Woman), viewers are taken on a gripping journey. Through the bustling streets of Milan, where the opulent facades hide secrets darker than the shadows they cast. With a stellar cast and meticulously chosen locations, Comencini weaves a narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

At the heart of the film are the spellbinding performances of its lead actors. Marcello Mastroianni, in his role as Commissioner Salvatore Santamaria, delivers a masterclass in understated intensity. His portrayal of a seasoned detective grappling with personal demons while navigating the murky waters of a high-society murder investigation is nothing short of mesmerizing. Mastroianni effortlessly captures the complexities of his character, infusing Santamaria with a world-weary charm that is as captivating as it is enigmatic.

Opposite Mastroianni, Jacqueline Bisset shines as Anna Carla Dosio, the titular La Donna della Domenica whose allure and mystique bewitch all who encounter her. Bisset brings a palpable sense of sophistication and vulnerability to the role, making Anna Carla a figure both alluring and enigmatic. Her chemistry with Mastroianni crackles on screen, lending an added layer of tension to their interactions as they navigate a labyrinth of deceit and betrayal.

But it’s not just the performances that elevate La Donna della Domenica to cinematic greatness; it’s also the meticulous attention to detail in the film’s location settings. From the bustling streets of Milan to the opulent interiors of the city’s elite. Comencini paints a vivid portrait of a society teetering on the brink of collapse. The juxtaposition of wealth and poverty, glamour and grit, serves as a poignant backdrop against which the film’s characters grapple with their own moral ambiguity.

One of the most striking locations in the film is the Dosio mansion. A sprawling estate that serves as both a symbol of wealth and privilege and a harbinger of the darkness lurking beneath the surface. With its ornate furnishings and sweeping staircases, the mansion is a character in its own right, its halls echoing with the whispers of secrets long buried.

Equally compelling are the scenes set in the seedier corners of Milan, where Santamaria delves into the city’s underworld in search of answers. From dimly lit alleyways to smoke-filled jazz clubs, Comencini captures the gritty realism of urban life. Immersing viewers in a world where danger lurks around every corner.

In La Donna della Domenica Comencini proves himself a master storyteller, crafting a tale of intrigue and suspense that keeps audiences guessing until the very end. With its unforgettable performances and evocative locations, this is a film that transcends genre, leaving an indelible mark on all who dare to venture into its shadowy depths.

Watch the whole movie on Movieitaly+

Read more articles here!