Buona Sera, Mrs. Campbell

Buona Sera, Mrs. Campbell is a 1968 comedy film directed by Melvin Frank and starring Gina Lollobrigida, Shelley Winters, and Phil Silvers. It tells the story of a woman who has been hiding a secret from her daughter and three men who believe they are her daughter's father.

The film opens with Mrs. Carla Campbell (Gina Lollobrigida) and her daughter Gia (Janet Margolin) preparing for the arrival of a group of American soldiers who were stationed in Italy during World War II. The soldiers have been invited back to the small Italian village of San Forino to attend a reunion and celebrate their victory. Mrs. Campbell, along with other women from the village, has been collecting money from the soldiers for years, claiming that it is for their daughter, so that each man believes he is her father.

As the soldiers arrive, the three men in question - Phil Newman (Phil Silvers), Walter Braddock (Peter Lawford), and Justin Young (Telly Savalas) - compete for Gia's affection, believing that they are the only man who could be her biological father. Meanwhile, Mrs. Campbell must try to keep her secret hidden from everyone, including her husband, who believes that he is Gia's father.

As the weekend wears on, Mrs. Campbell's plan begins to unravel, and the truth finally comes out. It is revealed that Gia's real father was Federico Bartolucci (Lee Montague), a soldier who died during the war. Despite the shock and disappointment of the men, Gia forgives her mother for her deception and decides to stay in San Forino.

Buona Sera, Mrs. Campbell is a light-hearted romp that features a talented cast and beautiful Italian scenery. The film explores themes of identity, family, and the meaning of fatherhood. Lollobrigida shines as the clever and resourceful Mrs. Campbell, while Winters delivers a hilarious performance as Shirley Newman, Phil's domineering and outspoken wife. Silvers adds his signature zaniness to the proceedings as the neurotic Phil, and Lawford and Savalas round out the cast with their own charm and wit.

One of the film's strengths is its sharp script, which balances humor with heart. The dialogue is witty and crackling, and there are many laugh-out-loud moments throughout the movie. The film also features some wonderful musical numbers, including the catchy title song, "Buona Sera," which is sung by Mickey Rooney.

Another highlight of the film is its stunning location in the picturesque Italian village of San Forino. The film captures the beauty of the Italian countryside and the warmth and hospitality of the Italian people. The scenes in the village are filled with colorful characters and lively street festivals that add to the film's charm.

Overall, Buona Sera, Mrs. Campbell is a delightful comedy that is sure to entertain. It boasts a talented cast, a witty script, and gorgeous Italian settings. The film's exploration of fatherhood, identity, and family ties adds depth to the humor, making it a must-see for fans of classic comedies. If you're looking for a fun and lighthearted movie that will put a smile on your face, Buona Sera, Mrs. Campbell is the perfect choice.