The decision by the solitary "Professor" (Burt Lancaster) to lease out the upstairs apartment in his villa to the Marchesa “Brumonti” (Silvana Mangano) seems like a mistake almost immediately, especially when his housekeeper (Elvira Cortese) begins noticing structural issues with the ceiling. Annoyed by the extensive damage occurring in his own house, he investigates and finds "Konrad" (Helmut Berger), a rather assertive young man who appears to believe he has authorization for renovations! Following several phone conversations, a temporary calm settles, but it doesn’t last as the story moves into a collection of family arguments, romantic disagreements, political discussions, and some unexpected events. The production possesses a distinctly theatrical feel; I occasionally questioned whether it might have functioned better with the limitations of a stage setting, although that didn't prevent it from offering an intense examination of damaging relationships—both those of the past and present—as the older man discovers his former tranquility is fading into what could be just a distant recollection. The conversations are stimulating and captivating, incorporating numerous allusions to capitalism, communism, and fascism that consistently heighten tensions. While I felt Lancaster’s performance was somewhat restrained, Berger and Mangano deliver strong portrayals, and the overall effect creates an effective sense of confinement that I found appealing. The ending didn't resonate with me completely, but it’s difficult to say what would have been more suitable, as their actions would likely embarrass even Machiavelli or Dante.

Source on TMDB