A Simple Story Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Movie Overview: A Simple Story
| Movie | A Simple Story |
| Release Year | 1991 |
| Director | Emidio Greco |
| Genre | Drama |
| Runtime | 91 minutes (1h 31m) |
| Language | IT |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is A Simple Story (1991) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.9/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in A Simple Story are led by Gian Maria Volonté . The supporting cast, including Ennio Fantastichini and Ricky Tognazzi , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
A Simple Story stands out as a strong entry in the Drama genre. The film benefits from engaging storytelling, memorable performances, and solid production values that help keep viewers invested.
- Compelling performances from the main cast
- Strong visual storytelling and direction
- Well-structured Drama narrative
- Satisfying emotional or dramatic payoff
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, A Simple Story has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Drama fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: A Simple Story
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1991, A Simple Story is a Drama film directed by Emidio Greco, written by Andrea Barbata. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Gian Maria Volonté as Carmelo Franzò.
Ending Explained: A Simple Story
A Simple Story Ending Explained: After many years, a retired diplomat returns to his native Sicily to visit an abandoned property and delve into family correspondence. Directed by Emidio Greco, this 1991 drama film stars Gian Maria Volonté (Carmelo Franzò), alongside Ennio Fantastichini as Commissario, Ricky Tognazzi as Brigadiere Lepri, Massimo Dapporto as Questore. With a 6.9/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of A Simple Story?
After many years, a retired diplomat returns to his native Sicily to visit an abandoned property and delve into family correspondence. But is it worth bringing up the past? A difficult Sicilian history against the backdrop of the mafia and drugs.
Emidio Greco's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Gian Maria Volonté (Carmelo Franzò)'s journey. But is it worth bringing up the past.
How Does Gian Maria Volonté (Carmelo Franzò)'s Story End?
- Gian Maria Volonté: Gian Maria Volonté's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Ennio Fantastichini (Commissario): Ennio Fantastichini's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Ricky Tognazzi (Brigadiere Lepri): Ricky Tognazzi's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of A Simple Story Mean?
A Simple Story's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Gian Maria Volonté may feel rushed. Emidio Greco's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.
A Simple Story Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is A Simple Story Based on a True Story?
No, A Simple Story is a work of fiction. While the drama film directed by Emidio Greco and starring Gian Maria Volonté may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch A Simple Story?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Gian Maria Volonté or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Where to Watch A Simple Story Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Mediaset Infinity
CineAutore Amazon ChannelA Simple Story Parents Guide & Age Rating
1991 AdvisoryWondering about A Simple Story age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of A Simple Story (1991) is 91 minutes (1h 31m). Directed by Emidio Greco, the film runs for 91 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.9/10, and global performance metrics, A Simple Story is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1991 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Simple Story worth watching?
A Simple Story is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 6.9/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find A Simple Story parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for A Simple Story identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of A Simple Story (1991)?
The runtime of A Simple Story (1991) is 91 minutes (approximately 1h 31m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.




