 Totò originally turned down the role of Nino as he didnt think  dramatic scenes were his forte. Producers Rizzoli and director Amato  had to literally plead and beg him to appear in the film. Totò  eventually accepted with one condition: he would appear as a  personal favour to both Rizzoli and Amato and refused to be paid.  The matter was settled when both men presented him with a priceless  gold and diamond piece of jewelry.