That Malicious Age(1975) | Premium & Recent
: While some contemporary viewers appreciate its "timeless" story of sex appeal and its symbolic artifacts—such as the naming of the protagonist "Napoleon" and religious imagery—others criticize the film as "confused" or "annoyingly misogynistic," reflecting the controversial standards of 1970s exploitation cinema.
: Gloria Guida's performance is often highlighted as a career-defining moment, embodying a "Greek goddess" persona that became a staple of Italian cult classics from that era. That Malicious Age(1975)
: Paola is portrayed as provocative and beautiful, blurring the lines between a victim of adult attention and a master manipulator of Napoleone’s emotions. : While some contemporary viewers appreciate its "timeless"
: As the summer progresses, Napoleone’s unchecked passion spirals into violence, specifically targeting a mentally disturbed fisherman who also courts Paola, marking a sharp turn from erotic comedy to intense drama. Critical Reception and Legacy : As the summer progresses, Napoleone’s unchecked passion
That Malicious Age remains a polarizing entry in 1970s European cinema.
The story centers on (played by Nino Castelnuovo), a bored artist seeking a fresh start by taking a summer job as a gardener at a secluded seaside villa. His quest for solitude is immediately disrupted by Paola (Gloria Guida), the attractive teenage daughter of his employers.
: Critics have noted the film's attempt to weave in "class morality" and "psychological introspection," though these elements are often overshadowed by the escalating erotic tension.
