Johnny Stecchino, also known as "Johnny Toothpick", is a 1991 Italian comedy film directed by and starring Roberto Benigni. The film follows the story of Dante, a well-meaning bus driver who is mistaken for notorious mafioso Johnny Stecchino by the mafia. Maria, the wife of the real Johnny, is in on the plan to set up Dante as a patsy, as she is desperate to escape her unhappy marriage.
As Dante becomes more involved in Maria's life, he begins to suspect that something is not right, but he is too enamored with her to notice the danger. Soon he finds himself embroiled in a complex web of deception, blackmail, and murder, as the mafia hatches a plan to get rid of Johnny for good.
Despite the dark subject matter, Johnny Stecchino is a lighthearted comedy that pokes fun at Italian culture and stereotypes. Benigni's performance as the bumbling but sweet-natured Dante is the highlight of the film, and his chemistry with co-star Nicoletta Braschi (who plays Maria) is a delight to watch.
The film was a commercial and critical success in Italy, and it helped to solidify Benigni's status as one of the country's most beloved comedians. It was also well-received internationally and went on to win several awards, including the prestigious David di Donatello for Best Film.
