Okay, fellow tapeheads, slide that worn-out copy of Handsome (or Segni particolari: bellissimo, if you found an import!) into the VCR. Remember that satisfying clunk? This 1983 Italian charmer, starring the one-and-only Adriano Celentano, might not have been on heavy rotation at every Blockbuster, but finding it tucked away on a shelf felt like uncovering a quirky, sun-drenched secret. It’s pure, unadulterated 80s Euro-comedy, tailor-made for its magnetic star.
The Irresistible Recluse
The premise alone screams 80s romantic comedy: Mattia (Adriano Celentano) is a ridiculously successful writer living in enviable isolation near Lake Como. His problem? He's too handsome. Women literally throw themselves at him, disrupting his peace. His solution? Hire a less conventionally attractive acquaintance (Gianni Bonagura) to pose as him in public. It’s absurd, charmingly so, and sets the stage for Celentano to do what he does best – exude that strange, slow-burn charisma that somehow makes grumpy detachment utterly captivating. This wasn't just acting; Celentano was already a national treasure in Italy, a singing superstar known for his eccentric persona, and this film leans hard into that established image, much to the delight of his fans back home.
Persistence Personified
Naturally, Mattia's carefully constructed solitude can't last. Enter Michela, played by the stunning Federica Moro. Michela isn't fooled by the decoy and sets her sights firmly on the real Mattia, pursuing him with a cheerful determination that borders on endearing obsession. What makes this fun is watching Celentano's Mattia gradually, reluctantly thaw under her persistent warmth. Retro Fun Fact: This was actually Federica Moro's big-screen debut, coming just after she was crowned Miss Italy 1982! Talk about hitting the ground running – holding your own against a force of nature like Celentano is no small feat for a newcomer. Their chemistry, built on his feigned indifference and her unwavering pursuit, powers the film's light-hearted core.
The Italian Comedy Machine
Behind the camera, we have the directing and writing duo Franco Castellano and Giuseppe Moccia (often billed simply as Castellano & Moccia). If you dipped into Italian comedies from this era, their names likely popped up frequently. They had a knack for crafting crowd-pleasing vehicles, often starring Celentano, including hits like Il Bisbetico Domato (1980) – known to some as The Taming of the Scoundrel. Handsome fits squarely into their successful formula: picturesque locations (that Lake Como scenery is glorious, even on fuzzy VHS!), a simple but effective romantic plot, broad humour, and ample opportunity for the star to shine. Retro Fun Fact: Handsome was a massive box office success in Italy during the 1983-84 season, proving Castellano & Moccia knew exactly what their audience wanted. It might feel formulaic now, but back then, it was a well-oiled, reliable laugh generator.
That Sun-Kissed 80s Glow
Watching Handsome today is like stepping into a time capsule filled with bright colours, questionable (but fun!) fashion, and that distinctly European 80s aesthetic. There are no slick CGI gags here; the comedy comes from the situations, the dialogue, and Celentano's unique physical presence and timing – that deliberate walk, the expressive shrugs, the way he could convey annoyance and intrigue simultaneously. Remember how films shot on location back then just felt more tangible? You can almost feel the Italian sun and smell the espresso. The pacing might seem leisurely compared to modern rom-coms, but it allows you to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the character interactions. It’s the kind of film that felt perfect watched late at night, the slight analogue fuzz on the CRT somehow adding to its charm.
***
VHS Heaven Rating: 6.5/10
Justification: Handsome is undeniably lightweight and leans heavily on its star's established appeal and a familiar rom-com formula. It's not high art, and the gender dynamics are pure early-80s. However, Celentano is magnetic, Federica Moro is charming in her debut, the scenery is beautiful, and it possesses a specific, breezy, sun-drenched nostalgia. It's pure comfort food cinema from the era, elevated by its iconic lead and the reliable craftsmanship of Castellano & Moccia. The 6.5 reflects its enjoyable nature as a star vehicle and period piece, acknowledging its formulaic structure prevents it from being a true classic but recognizing its significant charm for fans of the star or era.
Final Rewind: A delightful slice of 80s Italian pop cinema; finding this tape felt like bringing a little piece of Lake Como sunshine, and Adriano Celentano's unique brand of cool, right into your living room. Still worth a watch if you appreciate star power served with effortless 80s style.