The Golden Coach (1952)

Synopsis: Jean Renoir explores the complex relationship between theater and life in this highly stylized account of the travels of a commedia dell'arte troupe touring colonial Peru during the 19th century. It stars Anna Magnani as Camilla, the company's earthy, charismatic leading actress. Of the... Jean Renoir explores the complex relationship between theater and life in this highly stylized account of the travels of a commedia dell'arte troupe touring colonial Peru during the 19th century. It stars Anna Magnani as Camilla, the company's earthy, charismatic leading actress. Of the many men who admire her, three vie for her favors. Felipe (Paul Cambell), an aristocrat, first becomes her business manager, before going off to fight Indians. He finally returns, full of admiration for these "noble savages," and asks her to leave the troupe and live with him among his new friends. Ramon (Riccardo Rioli), a highly regarded bullfighter, is arrogant, egotistical and imperious, courting her with the notion that by combining forces, their glory would be doubled. The local Viceroy, the last of the three, complies with her demand of a proof of his love by offering her a golden coach. But, since the coach has been donated by the people as a symbol of the power of his title, he is required to surrender his political office. How will Camilla come to a decision? Despite Magnani's wonderful performance, it is Renoir's nephew Claude whose magnificent photography, employing a carefully graduated color-scheme, takes center stage in this foray into Pirandellian role-playing. [More]