Lina Wertmüller, born in 1926, was a pioneering Italian writer known for her sharp wit and bold storytelling. She penned the screenplays for When Women Had Tails (1970) and its sequel When Women Lost Their Tails (1972), both of which blend comedy and social commentary in a uniquely provocative manner. In Which Way Is Up? (1977), Wertmüller further showcased her talent for exploring complex themes through humor. Her work remains a significant part of the cult cinema landscape, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions.
Which Way Is Up?
When he falls into a union action by mistake, Leroy Jones is laid off from his job picking oranges. The only option given to find work to provide for his wife Annie Mae, their kids, and his father Rufus, is to leave them behind and go to Los Angeles, where more jobs are available. While he is away, Leroy becomes smitten with Vanetta, a beautiful labor activist. When he returns home, he has to juggle his wife, his new romance with Vanetta, and his new job. Meanwhile, the Reverend Lenox Thomas takes advantage of Leroy's absence to cavort with Annie Mae, leading Leroy to take revenge with the reverend's wife.
