University of Virginia Library

Bellows And Snorts

At the base of "The Secret of
Santa Vittoria" is Anthony Quinn
and here is where my critical status
rests most insecurely, Quinn once
again plays the role of the earthy
lover of life. He bellows and snorts.
He falls into melancholy. He is an
audacious age, a kind of back alley
philosopher. The role is not an
uncommon one for him. After
"Zorba the Greek" and "Dream of
Kings" the image may pale. Alas! I
continue to fall for it. This type of
character always appeals to me;
Anthony Quinn portrays this type
of individual effortlessly; and that
is why I wind up enjoying a movie
such as "Secret of Santa Vittoria."