Gardenia

Gardenia (1979) follows a charismatic underworld figure who runs a restaurant and clandestine gambling den in Rome and refuses to allow drug trafficking on his turf. When a powerful mafia boss insists on expanding narcotics distribution through his establishment, Gardenia’s refusal ignites bitter confrontation and street violence that draw allies and enemies into a dangerous standoff. This crime drama blends gritty noir elements and moral ambiguity in a subdued study of honor and conflict amid urban underworld codes.