Italian cinema, with a rich and storied history, boasts some of the most iconic and influential films ever made. Covering a wide spectrum of genres, from neorealism to romantic comedies, Italian filmmakers have consistently delivered cinematic treasures that have captivated viewers worldwide. If you love classic films or want to explore Italian cinema, here are 10 must-see classics:
1. “Roma Città Aperta” (1945)
IMDb Rating: 9.3/10
Directed by Roberto Rossellini, “Roma Città Aperta” (Rome, Open City) is considered one of the pioneering films of Italian neorealism directed by Roberto Rossellini and co-written by Sergio Amidei, Celeste Negarville and Federico Fellini. Set during the Nazi occupation of Rome, the film depicts a gripping tale of resistance, sacrifice, and the indomitable human spirit, powerfully portraying the Italian people’s resilience during World War II.
2. “Matrimonio All’Italiana” (1964)
IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
Directed by Vittorio De Sica and featuring Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni in the lead roles, “Matrimonio All’Italiana” (Marriage Italian Style) is a charming romantic comedy that follows the journey of a prosperous businessman and his mistress as they grapple with the intricate dynamics of love, family, and societal norms.
3. “Umberto D.” (1952)
IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
Umberto D. (1952) is a neorealist Italian film directed by Vittorio De Sica. The film tells the story of Umberto Domenico Ferrari, a retired civil servant on a meager pension who struggles to survive in post-war Rome. Amidst his struggles with poverty and loneliness, his faithful dog companion, Flike, remains his sole source of solace. It is a powerful and moving film that will stay with you long after you watch it.
4. “La Dolce Vita” (1960)
IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
Directed by Federico Fellini, “La Dolce Vita” (1960) is an Italian satirical film that centers around Marcello Rubini, played by Marcello Mastroianni, a tabloid journalist tasked with documenting the extravagant and decadent lives of Rome’s affluent elite.
5. “Vacanze Romane” (1953)
IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
“Vacanze Romane” (Roman Holiday) is a romantic comedy film directed by William Wyler and starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. This delightful film captures the essence of the Eternal City while showcasing the delightful chemistry between Hepburn and Peck. Roman Holiday is a must-see for any fan of romantic comedies or classic cinema.
6. “Otto e Mezzo” (1963)
IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
Unveiled in 1963, Federico Fellini’s “8½” is commonly hailed as a masterpiece emanating from the realm of Italian cinema. Guido Anselmi, a renowned film director, starts struggling with an existential crisis, seeking creative revival in past memories, fantasies, and dreams as an escape from the overwhelming burden of everyday life’s surreal and contemplative fragments.
7. “Ladri Di Biciclette” (1948)
IMDb Rating: 8.9/10
Directed by Vittorio De Sica, “Ladri Di Biciclette” (Bicycle Thieves) is another neorealist masterpiece. Antonio Ricci, a desperate unemployed man, finally lands a job that requires a bicycle. On his first day, his bicycle is stolen, and he and his son Bruno embark on a frantic search for the one vehicle that represents their hope for a better future.
8. “Nuovo Cinema Paradiso” (1988)
IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
Directed by Giuseppe Tornatore, “Nuovo Cinema Paradiso” (Cinema Paradiso) is a heartwarming tribute to the magic of cinema. The film follows the life of a young boy named Salvatore who grows up in a small Sicilian village and forms a deep bond with the local cinema projectionist, Alfredo.
9. “Il buono, il brutto, il cattivo” (1966)
IMDb Rating: 8.9/10
Il buono, il brutto, il cattivo” (The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly) is a classic 1966 Italian spaghetti western directed by Sergio Leone and starring Clint Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef, and Eli Wallach. The film is considered to be one of the greatest Westerns ever made, and it is a must-see for any fan of Westerns or classic cinema.
10. “La Vita è Bella” (1997)
IMDb Rating: 8.9/10
“La Vita è Bella” (Life Is Beautiful) is a heartwarming and heartbreaking tale set during the Holocaust, directed by and starring Roberto Benigni. The film depicts a father’s deep affection for his son and how he uses his imagination to shield him from the horrors of the concentration camp.
These ten classic Italian movies represent the diverse and influential contributions of Italy to the world of cinema. So, grab some popcorn, enable the Italian subtitles to enhance your language skills, and embark on a cinematic journey through the beautiful and emotionally charged world of Italian film. Ciao!