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Movie poster: Down the Ancient Stairs (1975)
🎬 Movie

Down the Ancient Stairs

1975 · 110 min Drama
5.1 / 10 · TMDB

A mental hospital somewhere in Tuscany during the thirties. Far away from fascism, this closed world is rules over by Dr. Bonaccorsi, a passionate benevolent psychiatrist whose dream is to isolate the germ of madness. He is also a very active ladies'man and makes three women benefit from his sexual itch: Francesca the hospital manager's wife, Bianca, his devoted nurse and Carla, a nymphomaniac doctor's wife. His well-ordered universe starts being challenged with the coming of Anna, a trainee psychiatrist, who disapproves of his theory on the origin of madness. Worse, she resists his advances. As Bonaccorsi is more insecure than he looks, what will become of him?

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📋 Film Details

Original Title Per le antiche scale
Year 1975
Country Italy
Genre Drama
Director Mauro Bolognini
Runtime 110 min.
Rating TMDB: 5.1/10 (13 votes)

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🎬 MovieFinder's Take

The film doesn't rush. It trusts the viewer — gives time to inhabit the characters, understand what's really happening. Direction here serves the actors rather than overwhelming them.

This film doesn't entertain — it speaks. If you're ready for that, it'll leave a mark. If not — it'll seem slow.

A good choice for those who value subtle direction and honest performance.

Director: Mauro Bolognini

— MovieFinder Editorial

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Viewing atmosphere: Unhurried, on a weekday evening. Put down the phone, let the film work.

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