Ugly Americans

The movie "Avanti!" is underrated, although it's nowhere near one of Billy Wilder's best movies. I enjoyed it, though. The plot was offbeat, and I was surprised and amused by the modest nudity.

Unfortunately, Americans come across as boors in this movie. (Even in 2014, many Americans are boors.)

American citizens: make fun of espresso; belittle Italy's lunch breaks; moan about Italy's laws about caskets going to America; in several cases say, "Do you have any idea who you're talking to???"; complain that the Italians can't understand English; say (absurdly) that Juliet Mills is overweight; and generally come across as ugly Americans.

I've never been to Italy, but when I go, I'll savor every bit of the food, atmosphere and culture.