Hot Potato (1979 film)


Hot Potato is a 1979 Commedia all'italiana film directed by Steno. The film discusses a range of issues such as homophobia in the political left, Anni di piombo violence, working class culture, and the sustainability of Eurocommunism.

Plot

Bernardo Mambelli nicknamed "il Gandi" is a PCI militant and pugilist working at a Milanese paint factory. One night, he sees a bunch of fascists beating a frail young man. He saves the man and brings him to his house to learn that he is Claudio, a homosexual. With nowhere to go, Claudio starts staying at Bernardo's house but a series of typical misunderstandings lead his comrades as well as his girlfriend Maria to believing that he has "turned gay". Bernardo is now seen as a potential lost cause and the ongoings soon reveal a "hot potato" situation for him.

Cast