5 Famous Italian Movies For You to Watch

The Italian film industry began in the early 20th century. Major production companies emerged in cities like Naples, Rome, Turin, and Milan. Early Italian silent films gained significant international recognition. With the rise of the National Fascist Party under Mussolini, filmmaking surged in Rome. However, these movies often served as propaganda, portraying life under Fascism. By the end of World War II, Italy faced significant changes in its film industry. Filmmakers began to reflect Italy’s harsh realities instead of pursuing profit. This evolution led to the emergence of the Neo-realism movement, marking the Golden Age of Italian cinema. While many great Italian films exist, SSP prepared five that are a must-watch.

La Dolce Vita

Released in 1960, La Dolce Vita stands as one of Federico Fellini’s most iconic films. Its title introduced a term that describes an aspect of Italian life used worldwide. Featuring Marcello Mastroianni and Anita Ekberg, the film won an Oscar for best costume design in a black-and-white film, receiving three other nominations. The story narrates the hedonistic lifestyle of European elites viewed through the eyes of Tabloid journalist Marcello Rubini. The film boasts striking scenes that inspired the term ‘Felliniesque,’ signifying Fellini’s extravagant and unique style.

Matrimonio all’italiana

Released in 1964, Matrimonio all’italiana is a romantic comedy directed by Vittorio De Sica, based on Eduardo De Filippo's play. Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni became one of the most celebrated screen couples, captivating international audiences. The plot begins during World War II in Naples, where Domenico (Mastroianni) quickly falls for Filomena (Loren). The story jumps to the postwar years, revealing their rekindled romance that spans two decades. Filomena becomes Domenico’s mistress and secretly bears his children. When she learns of his plans to marry another, she will stop at nothing to win him over.

Cinema Paradiso

Cinema Paradiso, directed by Giuseppe Tornatore, serves as a heartfelt tribute to cinema. The film captures the bond between cinema-loving Salvatore and the projectionist, Alfredo. It portrays early 20th-century Italy, where clergy censured kissing scenes in film. Despite its sentimental passages, Cinema Paradiso is viewed as an ode to film, illustrating its unifying power within communities.

Il Postino

Il Postino marked the last film featuring Massimo Troisi, renowned in the '80s and early '90s. The film gained worldwide recognition after its prominent success at the Academy Awards. Based on the novel Ardiente Paciencia, it tells the story of the friendship between the poet Pablo Neruda and a humble postman. Though culturally and intellectually different, they are united by their passion for life and love for Southern Italy. Neruda uses his poetry to woo a lady, famously stating that "poetry doesn’t belong to those who wrote it, but to those who need it!" The New York Times selected Il Postino as one of the best movies in cinematic history.

La Vita è Bella

Lauded for its cinematic excellence, Roberto Benigni created La Vita è Bella, blending romance, comedy, and tragedy seamlessly. Benigni assumed multiple roles as director, co-writer, and lead actor in this poignant tale. It reflects the harrowing experiences of the Holocaust while showcasing hope amid despair. This powerful storytelling won critical acclaim, as the film received three Academy Awards in 1998, including Best Foreign Language Film and Best Actor for Benigni.

Earlier, SSP told about all Harry Potter movies: ranked from worst to best.