Italian film directors such as Fellini, Visconti, Sorrentino, and Benigni have made a lasting impact on the history of cinema, creating a multitude of films that are must-sees. Here are our six top choices.
The seventh art encompasses numerous styles, and Neorealism holds an essential position in its landscape. Explore the best Italian films to see, at the very least, a single time in order to appreciate their artistic value.
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Six must-see films from Italian cinema
(1960) by Federico Fellini
Marcello Rubini is a journalist on the hunt for fame who navigates the high-society circles in Rome. As he rubs shoulders with famous people, aristocrats, and artists, he becomes entangled in the superficiality of that world and grapples with a deep personal crisis.
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(2013) by Paolo Sorrentino
Jep Gambardella, a middle-aged writer, becomes lost in the lavish parties and social cliques of Rome’s high class. Beneath this exterior, he ponders the hollowness of his life and the purpose of existence.
with an ultra-refined visual appearance and a biting critique of modern culture.
“Bicycle Thieves” (1948) by Vittorio De Sica
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This film is a quintessential representation of Italian neo-realism, portraying the harsh social conditions of the era with a deeply empathetic and humanistic tone.
(1960) by Luchino Visconti
The young man moves to Milan in search of a more fulfilling life. Tensions and rivalries between the brothers intensify, predominantly centered around boxing and romantic interests.
This film presents a poignant family drama that vividly captures the complexities of Italian society in the turbulent 1960s.
(1997) by Roberto Benigni
Guido, a Jewish father, employs his humor and creativity to shield his son from the terror of a concentration camp by reimagining their stay there as a “game.” He fabricates rules to preserve the illusion.
Tackles a very delicate subject with care and innovation, demonstrating love and bravery.
(1945) by Roberto Rossellini
During the Nazi occupation of Rome, resistance fighters clashed with their foes, aided by courageous figures like Pina, a devoted mother, and a devout priest.
This film, a pioneering work in the neo-realist genre, portrays the hardships and resilience of the Italian people under oppressive circumstances.
