LA LICEALE, IL DIAVOLO E L'ACQUASANTA

Cinemavixion Review

"La liceale, il diavolo e l'acquasanta" (1979) is an Italian anthology film that playfully explores themes of love, desire, and the consequences of Faustian bargains, all within the comedic sensibilities of its era. Directed by Nando Cicero and starring the popular trio of Gloria Guida, Lino Banfi, and Alvaro Vitali, the film is divided into three distinct episodes. The first segment follows a guardian angel who finds himself smitten with a dancer, only to discover her heart belongs to an earthly suitor. The second part centers on a policeman tasked with watching over a transvestite who has been arrested, adding a layer of social commentary and situational humor. The final episode presents a dental technician who attempts to strike a deal with the devil for personal gain, but finds the results less than satisfactory, leading to further complications. While specific critical reception and awards are not widely documented for this particular film, its appeal lies in the performances of its lead actors, who were prominent figures in Italian comedy during the late 1970s and early 1980s. The film offers a glimpse into the genre's exploration of risqué themes and lighthearted storytelling, characteristic of Italian popular cinema of the period. For fans of vintage Italian comedies and the specific talents of Guida, Banfi, and Vitali, "La liceale, il diavolo e l'acquasanta" provides an entertaining, albeit somewhat dated, cinematic experience.