Whereas most of the DonCamillo/Peppone stories are safely grounded in the Italian landscape, here they undertake a journey to Russia as part of a communist delegation. Much of the charm of the series consists of the sympathetic and truthful (yet always with a wink) portrayal of Brescello and its population; the "Russians" on display in this 5th and last entry remain very cardboard, so a big part of the humanity of the series is missing. On the other hand, both Fernandel and Gino Cervi feel very at home in their roles, and it's a joy how they play off each other. The comedy is never laugh-out-loud but it's always there, while at the same time there's real tension when - what a cruel coincidence! - exactly during their welcome party, Khrushchev is replaced by Brezhnev and the Italians are left in a serious political vacuum. Another plus of this film is a certain playfulness - the fun start credits, a Russian Traviata, nice political presents, a Russian children's choir intoning "volare" ... and, at the very end, we witness "Peppone" Gino Cervi without the trademark moustache - oh my god, what a difference lies in such a silly piece of facial hair - unbelievable (as DonCamillo mentions).
Overall, while not the best entry in the series, everyone who liked the prior ones will be satisfied with this one, too!
postscript: The English title "Don Camillo in Moscow" is misleading; they just pass Moscow on their flight, but the plot takes place in a removed kolkhoz. And you have to love the actress playing the cute interpreter just for her name ... "Graziella Granata". Wow!
Overall, while not the best entry in the series, everyone who liked the prior ones will be satisfied with this one, too!
postscript: The English title "Don Camillo in Moscow" is misleading; they just pass Moscow on their flight, but the plot takes place in a removed kolkhoz. And you have to love the actress playing the cute interpreter just for her name ... "Graziella Granata". Wow!