Giovanni Storti, born on February 20, 1957, in Milan, Italy, is a name that resonates with fans of Italian comedy and cinema. Best known as one-third of the iconic comedy trio Aldo, Giovanni e Giacomo, Giovanni Storti has enjoyed a prolific career in theater, television, and film. This article provides a comprehensive look into the life, career, and achievements of Giovanni Storti, exploring his rise to fame, the impact of his work, and the nuances of his contributions to Italian entertainment.
Early Life and Education
Giovanni Storti was born and raised in Milan, a city known for its vibrant culture and rich artistic history. From a young age, Storti displayed an affinity for the performing arts, a passion that would shape his future career. While information about his early education is not widely publicized, it is clear that Storti’s formative years were marked by a growing interest in theater and performance.
In the late 1970s, Storti took his first significant steps toward a career in entertainment by attending the Arsenale Theater School in Milan. It was here that he honed his skills in mimodrama—a form of theater that emphasizes physical expression and mime. This training provided him with a solid foundation in the art of non-verbal communication, which would become a hallmark of his comedic style.
The Formation of Aldo, Giovanni e Giacomo
Giovanni Storti’s career took a pivotal turn when he met Aldo Baglio, another aspiring comedian, at a young age. Aldo Baglio, born Cataldo Baglio in Palermo, Sicily, had moved to Milan with his family when he was just three years old. The two quickly formed a strong bond over their shared love of comedy and theater.
In the early 1980s, after completing his training at the Arsenale Theater School, Storti teamed up with Baglio to create a cabaret duo. The pair performed in various clubs and theaters around Milan, gradually building a reputation for their unique brand of physical comedy and witty dialogue. Their performances often drew on the traditions of Italian commedia dell’arte, incorporating exaggerated characters and situations that resonated with audiences.
The duo’s success led to the formation of a trio in 1985 when they were joined by Giacomo Poretti. Poretti, born on April 26, 1956, in Villa Cortese, Milan, had a background in theater and a deep passion for acting. His addition to the group added a new dynamic, and together, the three comedians began performing under the name “Aldo, Giovanni e Giacomo.”
The Rise to Fame: Television and Theater
The late 1980s and early 1990s were crucial years for Aldo, Giovanni e Giacomo as they transitioned from performing in small venues to becoming household names in Italy. Their big break came when they started appearing on television, initially in minor roles but quickly gaining popularity for their humor and chemistry.
One of their first significant television appearances was on the show “Su la testa!” hosted by Paolo Rossi. Their segments on the show, characterized by their absurd humor and clever wordplay, resonated with viewers and established them as rising stars in Italian comedy.
During this period, they also began performing regularly at the Zelig Cabaret in Milan, a renowned venue for Italian comedians. Their success at Zelig led to more television appearances, including a recurring role on “Mai dire Gol,” a popular comedy show produced by the Gialappa’s Band. On “Mai dire Gol,” the trio created and performed some of their most beloved characters, including the hapless Tafazzi, the bumbling Nico, and the sarcastic Mr. Flanagan.
Their television success was paralleled by their work in theater. In 1995, they brought their first major theatrical production, “I Corti,” to the stage. Directed by the renowned Italian director Arturo Brachetti, “I Corti” was a collection of short comedic sketches that showcased the trio’s versatility and creativity. The show was a huge success and solidified their reputation as one of Italy’s premier comedy acts.
Transition to Film: A New Chapter
The success of their television and theater work naturally led to opportunities in film. In 1997, Aldo, Giovanni e Giacomo made their cinematic debut with the film “Tre uomini e una gamba” (“Three Men and a Leg”). The film, which they also co-wrote, was a runaway success, both critically and commercially. It showcased their signature blend of physical comedy, witty dialogue, and heartwarming storytelling.
“Tre uomini e una gamba” was the first of many successful films for the trio. They followed it up with “Così è la vita” (“Such Is Life”) in 1998 and “Chiedimi se sono felice” (“Ask Me If I’m Happy”) in 2000. Each of these films was a major box office hit in Italy, further cementing their status as leading figures in Italian cinema.
What set Aldo, Giovanni e Giacomo apart from other comedic acts was their ability to blend humor with poignant storytelling. Their films often explored themes of friendship, love, and the absurdities of everyday life, resonating with a wide audience. This approach earned them a loyal fan base and critical acclaim, with “Chiedimi se sono felice” becoming one of the highest-grossing films in Italian cinema history.
The 2000s: Continued Success and Challenges
The early 2000s saw Aldo, Giovanni e Giacomo continue their dominance in Italian entertainment. They released a series of successful films, including “La leggenda di Al, John e Jack” (“The Legend of Al, John and Jack”) in 2002 and “Tu la conosci Claudia?” (“Do You Know Claudia?”) in 2004. While these films were well-received, they did not quite reach the heights of their earlier work.
During this period, the trio also returned to the stage with “Anplagghed,” a theatrical production that combined new sketches with some of their classic material. Directed once again by Arturo Brachetti, the show was a critical and commercial success, and in 2006, it was adapted into a film, “Anplagghed al cinema.”
Despite their continued success, the trio faced some challenges in the latter half of the decade. Their 2008 film “Il cosmo sul comò” received mixed reviews, and there was a sense that their comedic style, while still popular, was beginning to show signs of wear. However, they bounced back in 2010 with “La banda dei Babbi Natale” (“The Santa Claus Gang”), a film that was both a critical and commercial success, earning over 25 million euros at the box office.
Later Career and Recent Work
In the 2010s, Giovanni Storti, along with his partners Aldo and Giacomo, continued to be a prominent figure in Italian entertainment. In 2013, Storti appeared alongside Angela Finocchiaro in the comedy “Ci vuole un gran fisico” (“It Takes a Great Body”), a film that also featured Aldo and Giacomo in smaller roles.
The trio returned to the stage with “Ammutta muddica,” a new theatrical production that toured extensively and was later released as a DVD. They also continued to explore new creative avenues, including voice acting in the 2010 documentary “Oceani 3D,” where they served as narrators.
In 2014, Aldo, Giovanni e Giacomo released “Il ricco, il povero e il maggiordomo” (“The Rich, the Poor, and the Butler”), a film that saw them return to their comedic roots with a story about class differences and unlikely friendships. The film was well-received, demonstrating that the trio still had the ability to connect with audiences after more than two decades in the business.
To celebrate their 25th anniversary, the trio embarked on a special tour in 2016, performing “The Best of Aldo, Giovanni e Giacomo Live 2016.” The tour was a resounding success, drawing large crowds and reaffirming their place in Italian comedy.
However, their 2016 film “Fuga da Reuma Park” (“Escape from Reuma Park”) received less favorable reviews, signaling that even comedic legends like Aldo, Giovanni e Giacomo could face challenges in maintaining their creative momentum.
Giovanni Storti: Beyond Comedy
While Giovanni Storti is best known for his work as a comedian and actor, his interests and talents extend beyond the world of entertainment. Storti is an avid runner and a passionate advocate for physical fitness. He has participated in numerous marathons and long-distance races, often using his platform to promote the benefits of an active lifestyle.
Storti has also co-authored several books, including “Corro perché mia mamma mi picchia” (“I Run Because My Mom Hits Me”), which combines humor with practical advice on running and fitness. His commitment to health and wellness has made him a respected figure not just in comedy, but in the broader Italian community as well.
Legacy and Influence
Giovanni Storti’s impact on Italian comedy is undeniable. Along with Aldo and Giacomo, he helped to define a new era of Italian humor that blends physical comedy, clever wordplay, and heartfelt storytelling. Their work has influenced countless comedians and filmmakers in Italy and beyond.
The trio’s ability to connect with audiences across different mediums—whether on stage, on television, or in film—speaks to their versatility and enduring appeal. Even as they face the challenges of maintaining relevance in an ever-changing entertainment landscape, their contributions to Italian culture remain significant.
Conclusion
Giovanni Storti’s career is a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and perseverance. From his early days in Milan to his rise as one of Italy’s most beloved comedians, Storti has consistently pushed the boundaries of what comedy can achieve. His work with Aldo and Giacomo has left an indelible mark on Italian entertainment, and his commitment to fitness and wellness adds another dimension to his multifaceted career.
As Giovanni Storti continues to explore new projects and challenges, his legacy as a pioneering figure in Italian comedy is secure. Whether through laughter or inspiration, Storti has touched the lives of countless people, making him not just a comedian, but a true cultural icon.
