One-line Summary:
White Collar Blues is a satirical Italian comedy directed by Luciano Salce. The film follows the misadventures of a group of office workers who decide to go on strike to protest against their tyrannical boss. As they navigate the challenges of organizing a strike and dealing with the consequences, they discover the power of solidarity and the importance of fighting for their rights.
Main Cast and Crew:
- Director: Luciano Salce
- Writers: Age & Scarpelli, Luciano Salce
- Key Actors:
- Alberto Sordi as Oreste
- Norma Bengell as Norma
- Gianna Maria Canale as Wanda
- Carlo Delle Piane as Carlo
- Ugo Tognazzi as Ugo
- Music Director: Piero Piccioni
- Director of Photography: Aldo Tonti
- Producers: Franco Cristaldi, Dino De Laurentiis
Plot:
The film revolves around Oreste, a middle-aged office worker who becomes fed up with his monotonous job and oppressive boss. Inspired by a book on workers’ rights, Oreste convinces his colleagues to go on strike. However, their initial enthusiasm quickly fades as they face various challenges and conflicts within their group.
Oreste’s wife, Norma, supports his decision but worries about their financial situation. Meanwhile, Wanda, a young and ambitious secretary, sees the strike as an opportunity to advance her own career. Carlo, a timid employee, is torn between his loyalty to Oreste and his fear of losing his job.
As the strike progresses, the workers face opposition from their boss, who resorts to underhanded tactics to break their unity. Despite setbacks, Oreste and his colleagues find strength in their solidarity and continue their fight for better working conditions.
Themes and Motifs:
White Collar Blues explores themes of workplace exploitation, the importance of collective action, and the struggle for workers’ rights. The film satirizes the bureaucratic nature of office life and highlights the dehumanizing effects of corporate culture. Through humor and wit, it exposes the power dynamics between employers and employees and the need for workers to stand up for their rights.
Reception and Legacy:
Upon its release in 1975, White Collar Blues received positive reviews for its sharp social commentary and comedic performances. Alberto Sordi’s portrayal of Oreste was particularly praised for its blend of humor and pathos.
The film was nominated for several awards, including the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film. It remains a significant entry in Italian cinema, known for its biting satire and its exploration of class struggle in the workplace.
Recommendation:
White Collar Blues is a must-watch for fans of Italian comedy and social satire. Its clever writing, memorable characters, and insightful commentary make it an engaging and thought-provoking film. Whether you’re familiar with the Italian cinema of the era or not, this movie offers an entertaining and relevant exploration of the challenges faced by working-class individuals.
Memorable Quote:
“We are not machines! We are human beings!” – Oreste
