Seven Beauties, directed by Lina Wertmüller, is a 1975 Italian satirical war drama film that touches upon several themes, including fascism, war, survival, and gender roles.
The film opens with Pasqualino Frafuso (Giancarlo Giannini) and his seven sisters living in Naples. Pasqualino, known as the "king of smugglers," provides for his family by stealing and selling black-market goods. Despite exploiting his sisters, he considers himself the protector of their virginity and honor. However, when one of his sisters is raped, Pasqualino seeks revenge and ends up killing the perpetrator. He is then arrested and sent to prison.
Pasqualino's time in prison is depicted in a surreal and comical manner, highlighting the harsh conditions and the corrupt officials. After being released, Pasqualino joins the army and is deployed to fight in Africa. There, he commits sexual assault and is sent to a German concentration camp.
In the concentration camp, Pasqualino uses his charm and wit to seduce the female officers and gain special treatment. He also befriends a fellow Italian inmate who helps him to hatch an escape plan. However, when the plan fails, Pasqualino is forced to take extreme measures to survive.
Throughout the film, Wertmüller critiques fascist ideals and the toxic masculinity present in Italian society. Pasqualino is portrayed as a flawed and complex character who is both a victim and a perpetrator of violence. Despite his immoral actions, Pasqualino's desire for survival and redemption make him a sympathetic character.
Seven Beauties was critically acclaimed and received multiple nominations at the 49th Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Picture. The film's dark humor and provocative themes have made it a classic of Italian cinema.