Lot 214: Mondo Cane (Pieski Swiat)

1961, Polish -- 33x23in. (84x58cm.), linen-backed, (A-)
Art by Wojciech Zamecznik

T. Nourmand & G. Marsh Op. cit, 2005, p.111 (illus.)

MONDO CANE

The Mondo Cane series of films is racist, violent and shocking, with few, if any, redeeming features. Yet, as is the case with many exploitation titles, they remain interesting period pieces that give us a valuable insight into the standards and morals of yesteryear. The series was also significant in creating the 'voyeur' cinematic genre and spawned an endless stream of imitators. A huge hit at drive-ins, the series remained popular throughout the 1960s.
The American and Polish Mondo Cane posters cast interesting light on the differing ways in which the film was perceived and promoted in the two countries. While the American approach was to use the poster to highlight the nudity and the 'documentary' aspects of the film, the Polish rendition gives nothing away. Stricking in its simplicity, the design by Wojciech Zamecznik (1923-1967) combines photography with sleek graphic elements - a fitting example of the artist's unique style.

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