De Pretore Vincenzo

Vincenzo De Pretore explains to his girlfriend Ninuccia, who threatens to commit suicide if they don't get married, that he wants to wait until he can give her a comfortable life, and tells her that he is the son of a rich man, raised by a poor couple. But to make a living, he is forced to steal and ends up in prison. On Ninuccia's advice, he chooses St. Joseph as his patron saint, and from then on his "work" goes from strength to strength.

Directed by Eduardo De Filippo, De Pretore Vincenzo leans on a strong ensemble — Luca De Filippo, Eduardo De Filippo, Nunzia Fumo — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about comedy titles of 1976.