But the characters and dialogue are the stuff of comic strips and junk fiction.

ECONOMIST: The trouble with cartoon films

Modena, next to Parma, is the epicenter of the gourmet vinegar trade, where Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena is made, the good stuff when it comes to balsamic vinegar, to the supermarket junk most Americans (and restaurants) use as dry aged ribeye is to microwaved convenience store burgers.

FORBES: The Biggest Italian Dinner In History, Thanks To Social Media

Banks' balance-sheets are clogged with toxic junk precisely because they are unwilling to sell the stuff at prices hedge funds and other private investors are willing to pay.

ECONOMIST: Saving the banks