Adua e le compagne

This is the impressive portrait of a friendship that is tested by society's hypocrisy and moral constraints. In 1958, the Italian government bans brothels, following their temporary legalization after World War II. As a result, four Roman prostitutes, Adua (Simone Signoret), Marilina (Emmanuelle Riva), Lolita (Sandra Milo) and Milly (Gina Rovere), decide to open a trattoria on the outskirts of the city and to offer sexual services on the upper floor. When they are refused permission to open the restaurant because of their professional past, they are forced to make an agreement with a shady businessman who will act as the official owner. Marcello Mastroianni stars as Adua's lover. (hjf)