Monicelli, whose career spanned over six decades as both a director and screenwriter, offers a look at Italian political dynamics with this satirical portrayal of a failed coup attempt by some officers adhering to fascist ideals. The screenplay comes from Agenore Incrocci, another prolific writer who also had an extensive professional history. War veterans receive state pensions and perform songs reminiscent of the past, seemingly unaware that their behavior will be perceived as foolish antics. However, Italian politicians are able to manipulate the situation for their own benefit, ultimately preserving democracy, albeit in a precarious fashion. The officers behave with theatricality, echoing the style of an Italian opera, holding traditional meetings and believing they can undo Italy’s delicate democratic system. Ultimately, they achieve their goal, but not according to their plans... This is a clever comedy that explores the Italian lifestyle and political landscape through the perspective of a director drawing on personal experiences from his younger years.

Source on TMDB