Don’t miss out on this grand sale! The documentary Palazza di Cozzo charts the life of Franco Cozzo, a Sicilian migrant whose trilingual commercials brought a uniquely maximalist energy to Australian television in the 1970s and ‘80s. Switching between English, Greek and Italian, he became one of Melbourne's most recognisable personalities.

Excerpts from Cozzo’s ads showcase the opulent furniture he sold from stores in Footscray, Brunswick and North Melbourne, where he quickly became a cult figure. Baroque and palatial showrooms fill the screen, transforming everyday furniture shopping into spectacle. Yet Cozzo's approach to selling was remarkably simple. There was no need for actors, fancy locations, gimmicks or special effects. Pure salesperson charisma took centre stage.

Speaking directly to migrant communities while charming long-time locals with a warm to-camera address, Cozzo’s personal invitations were the anchor for a swirl of gold trim, ornate lounges and aspirational living rooms. His success reflected a diversifying Australian drawn to niche personalities, bolder self-expression and the promise of everyday luxury at an affordable price.