Italy is known for its unique traditions, and one of the most peculiar ones is the annual showing of what is considered an Italian Christmas movie classic that you might want to add to your holiday plans.
When my family and I were planning on moving to Italy, we delved into the culture and traditions of the country. Christmas, for the most part, is what you would expect in a country that is home to Vatican City.
One tradition that stood out to us was the annual airing of a traditional Italian Christmas movie that we hadn’t heard of before. The movie is called Trading Places, which is renamed Una Poltrona Per Due, roughly translating to “An Armchair For Two”.
This classic movie is a comedic take on the tale of a rich man and a poor man who swap places, and it has been a staple on Italian television every Christmas since 1997. This year, Italian theaters will be screening the restored 4K version of the movie in the lead-up to the holiday season.
What Is The Story Behind This Italian Christmas Movie?
Trading Places is a classic “Fish Out Of Water” comedy about a rich man who becomes poor, a poor man who becomes rich, and how they adapt to their new environments. Despite the sociological undertones, the movie is filled with laughter, thanks to the expert performances of Dan Aykroyd and Eddie Murphy. In the end, justice is served, and the pawns in this social experiment come out victorious.
.jpg)
This Is Not Your Typical Hallmark Movie
While Trading Places may not be your traditional Hallmark movie due to its adult themes, including prostitution, suicide, and murder, it is a hilarious and entertaining film that is sure to bring some holiday cheer.
Why Is Trading Places Considered A Christmas Movie?
Despite the mature themes, Trading Places is considered a Christmas movie in Italy. The holiday season serves as the backdrop for the story, and while it may not be a typical American Christmas tale, it fits perfectly into the European and Italian holiday traditions.
.jpg)
Embrace Italian Culture With A New Christmas Tradition
If you’re looking to add a touch of Italian culture to your holiday celebrations, consider watching Trading Places this Christmas season. While it may seem unconventional at first, this classic movie will soon become a beloved part of your holiday traditions.
Exploring New Cultures Through Cinema
If you enjoyed learning about this Italian Christmas movie tradition, check out some of our other articles on Italian culture and cinema.
