by Paul Byrnes

Mutual misunderstanding is the dominant theme in this pioneering comedy. The Italian migrant may not know the language of beer, but the Australian doesn’t realise the rest of the world doesn’t speak 'Strine’. Still, the two men soon find an accommodation.

The scene is interesting for the way it depicts the 'innocent’ Australian character, a man of generous, open spirit. This contrasts with others Nino meets later. It’s of historical interest too – it shows the Marble Bar before it was relocated to become part of the Sydney Hilton Hotel.