
The Ape Woman 1964
Marco Ferreri's *The Ape Woman (1964)* blends dark comedy with poignant drama in a story that challenges societal norms.
Director: Marco Ferreri
Cast





Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Ape Woman (1964)* about?
The film follows a modest Neapolitan man who discovers a young woman with unusual hairiness and profits by exhibiting her at fairs. Their marriage takes a turn when a French manager offers to showcase her in Paris, forcing him to question his motivations and their relationship.
Who directed *The Ape Woman*?
Marco Ferreri directed *The Ape Woman (1964)*. Known for his provocative and socially critical films, Ferreri crafts a story that balances dark humor with deep emotional resonance.
Who stars in *The Ape Woman*?
The film features Ugo Tognazzi as the Neapolitan man, alongside Annie Girardot as the titular Ape Woman, with Achille Majeroni and Ermelinda De Felice in supporting roles.
Is *The Ape Woman (1964)* worth watching?
While not widely rated, *The Ape Woman (1964)* is a cult favorite among fans of Italian cinema, offering a unique blend of drama and comedy. Its exploration of human vulnerability and societal judgment makes it a thought-provoking watch, though its unconventional premise may not appeal to everyone.
How long is *The Ape Woman*?
The runtime of *The Ape Woman (1964)* is 92 minutes.
About The Ape Woman (1964) — A Dark Comedy About Exploitation and Unexpected Love
Marco Ferreri's *The Ape Woman (1964)* blends dark comedy with poignant drama in a story that challenges societal norms. Set against the vibrant chaos of Naples, the film follows a humble man who stumbles upon a young woman with extraordinary hairiness—an unusual trait that becomes both his ticket to fortune and a moral dilemma. As he exploits her condition at traveling fairs, their lives intertwine in unexpected ways, culminating in a marriage that tests the boundaries of love and exploitation. A French impresario's offer to display her as a spectacle in Paris forces him to confront his own humanity.
The film's biting satire and unflinching gaze at human commodification are balanced by Ferreri's signature mix of absurdity and pathos. With performances by Ugo Tognazzi and Annie Girardot, *The Ape Woman (1964)* transcends its unconventional premise to explore themes of identity, dignity, and the price of ambition. Its gritty, atmospheric storytelling lingers long after the credits roll.