The Rose Tattoo (1955)

Upon meeting Alvaro, a happy and carefree man who reminds her of her deceased husband, Serafina emerges from her reclusive life and finds solace in this man who is startlingly similar to her beloved husband. Not only does Alvaro have the same occupation as her late husband, but he also has the same rose tattoo on his chest. Seeing these common traits between the two men as a sign, Serefina’s life takes a change for the better.

 The Rose Tattoo
Magnani was already an international star when lured to Hollywood to do this sterling adaptation of Tennessee Williams's play. The earthy, fiery Italian actress inhabits the central role of Serafina like a second skin. Magnani's powerfully expressive face betrays the conflicting emotions of a proud but wounded woman facing the prospect--and attendant risks--of new love. Though Lancaster is miscast as Alvaro, he wins points for spirit and effort. June 27, 2007

 Big disappointment
When I ordered, I couldn't find the region it was compatible for. Now I can't watch it because it can't be watched in Europe. May 12, 2007

 Emotional Performance stands the test of time
Anna Magnani's Oscar winning performance sizzles through the decades and retains poignancy. Her organic method creates a believable and sympathetic character. The stereotypical view of Italians however is worse than the Soprano's. We even enjoyed second viewing with my 82-year-old father who said that Ms. Magnani's portrayal of the Italian immigrant seamstress was an early example of a more naturalistic approach to acting. February 11, 2007

 Only Anna Magnani and her face are right for this role
I remember reading that this role was written for her. I caught this film accidentally years ago and I was delighted. The acting and the story are adult and complex. The two leads really play off each other well. Burt Lancaster may be the one American actor I actually like and find earthily delicious. At least, he's the only one that comes to mind. Angelics like James Stewart and Gregory Peck are lovely but Burt is just cool. I'm not interested in seeing From Here to Eternity because Deborah Kerr's lips look too thin to be kissing Burt's and I expected more from Sweet Smell of Success. For me, this movie is a sure thing. August 12, 2006

 Life portrayed
I absolutely adore this movie.Burt Lancaster is so different than in most of his roles that I have seen him in as the bumbling truck driver who just wants to please the beautiful lady.My mother and her sisters are of Italian decent and even look and act as tempormental as she does so when I watch this it's kind of like watching a family reunion.The story is superb of the mother letting the daughter grow up and choose her own way.Real life.Wonderfully portrayed. August 1, 2006

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