Fellini, Visconti, Sorrentino, Benigni… These Italian filmmakers have made significant contributions to cinematic history across many years, giving us an abundance of remarkable works… each worth watching at least once in your lifetime. Below are our top six picks.
Being intrigued by Italian cinema means delving into a distinctive approach to narrating tales, reflecting real life, and playing with visuals and feelings. Renowned for its daring and pioneering visual style and film genres that have had global impact—like neorealism in the 1940s, spaghetti Westerns, or
giallo
—a mix of suspense and stylish terror—
cinema from Italy
occupies a vital position within the seventh art itself. To discover some must-see Italian movies for your lifetime viewing list, read on.
Fascinated by film? Learn more about it here:
- Here is the ultimate list of iconic movies you should watch at least once in your lifetime.
- The top suspense movies you should see at least once in your lifetime.
- 6 movies where Venice takes center stage as the main character
The six essential movies you should watch from Italian cinema
La dolce vita
(1960) by Federico Fellini
Marcello Rubini, a journalist hungry for recognition, navigates through the high society scenes of Rome. While mingling with stars, nobles, and creatives, he gets entangled in the shallowness of their world and faces an identity crisis of his own.
Why see it?
It stands as an impressive contemplation on seeking significance, enhanced by Fellini’s distinctive visual style, particularly the renowned sequence where Anita Ekberg makes her entrance.
the Trevi Fountain
.
La grande bellezza
(2013) by Paolo Sorrentino
Jep Gambardella, a seasoned author, immerses himself in Rome’s lavish soirees and elite social spheres. Amidst all this opulence, he grapples with the hollowness of his own life and ponders the significance of being alive.
Why see it
?
A contemporary version of
La dolce vita
, featuring highly refined aesthetics and a incisive commentary on contemporary society.
Ladri di biciclette
(
The Bicycle Thief
(1948) by Vittorio De Sica
In war-torn and poverty-stricken Italy, Antonio secures employment as a poster hanger, relying heavily on his bicycle for his daily tasks. After his bike is stolen, he faces a significant challenge.
he travels around Rome
Along with his son, he sets out to discover it, battling poverty and hopelessness.
Why see it
?
This movie is characteristic of Italian neo-realism, portraying the grim social realities of the era with profound human compassion.
Rocco and his brothers
(1960) by Luchino Visconti
A poor family from
the region of Puglia
relocates to Milan in search of a improved life. Conflicts and competitions among the siblings, mainly concerning boxing and romance, result in unavoidable dramatic situations.
Why see it
?
A poignant family story that vividly captures the social landscape of 1960s Italy with enthusiasm.
La vita è bella (Life is Beautiful)
(1997) by Roberto Benigni
Guido, a Jewish father, employs his wit and creativity to shield his son from the atrocities of a concentration camp by transforming their time there into a ‘game.’ He devises rules to sustain this pretense and keep hope alive for his child.
Why see it
?
Both funny and poignant,
La vita è bella
tackles a challenging topic with care and ingenuity, highlighting love and bravery.
Roma città aperta (Rome, Open City)
(1945) by Roberto Rossellini
In the time when Nazis occupied Rome, resistants fought against their oppressors with assistance from brave individuals like Pina—a devoted mother—and a dedicated priest.
Why see it
?
This movie, which pioneered neo-realism, highlights the struggles and bravery of Italians facing oppression.
