---
title: "The Key"
year: 1983
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/the-key-1983"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 28468
imdb_id: "tt0085328"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 110
community_rating: 6.0
vote_count: 447
content_rating: "Unrated"
---

# The Key (1983) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/the-key-1983

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

The Key is a 1983 Italian erotic drama film directed by Tinto Brass. Set in 1940s Venice during the early months of the fascist regime, the story centers on Nino Rolfe, a retired art critic, and his younger wife Teresa, who find their twenty-year marriage losing passion. In an attempt to rekindle their relationship and help Teresa overcome her inhibitions, Nino records his sexual fantasies in a diary. The film explores themes of marital discord, sexual awakening, and personal liberation within the constraints of societal expectations. It stars Stefania Sandrelli, Frank Finlay, and Franco Branciaroli. The movie was released in October 1983 and is available for streaming through various platforms. The narrative delves into the complexities of intimacy and self-discovery, portraying a woman's journey toward understanding her own desires. The film is set against the backdrop of wartime Italy, adding historical context to its exploration of personal relationships.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A retired art critic attempts to revitalize his long marriage through a diary of sexual fantasies."

### Why Watch
- explores complex marital dynamics
- period setting in 1940s Venice

### Caveats & Content Note
- themes may be sensitive for some viewers
- Tone & Suitability: The film contains mature sexual themes and adult content.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: romantic, dramatic, intimate

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Tinto Brass
- **Networks / Studios**: Selenia Cinematografica, International Video Service, San Francisco Film

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Stefania Sandrelli** as *Teresa Rolfe*
- **Frank Finlay** as *Nino Rolfe*
- **Franco Branciaroli** as *Laszlo Apony*
- **Barbara Cupisti** as *Lisa Rolfe*
- **Armando Marra**
- **Maria Grazia Bon** as *Giulietta*
- **Gino Cavalieri** as *Don Rusetto*
- **Piero Bortoluzzi** as *Memo Longobardi*
- **Irma Veithen** as *The Nurse*
- **Eolo Capritti**

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: What is the setting of the film?
The story takes place in 1940s Venice.

### Q: Who are the primary characters?
The film focuses on a retired art critic named Nino Rolfe and his younger wife, Teresa.

### Q: What is the central conflict?
The couple struggles with waning passion after twenty years of marriage.

### Q: What does Nino use to address his relationship issues?
He records his sexual fantasies in a diary to help his wife overcome her inhibitions.

### Q: What is the genre of the film?
It is an Italian romantic drama.

## Grounded Source Citations

- [Online & Mobile Banking | KeyBank](https://www.key.com/personal/online-banking/online-banking.html)
- [The Key (1983) - Full cast & crew - IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0085328/fullcredits/)
- [KEY Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/key)
- [Where to Watch The Key (1983) Online - Plex](https://watch.plex.tv/movie/the-key-1983)
- [Keybank-Login](https://ibx.key.com/ibxolb/login/client/index.html)
- [The Key (1983) - Tinto Brass | Synopsis, Movie Info, Moods, Themes and ...](https://www.allmovie.com/movie/the-key-am40389)

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*