A 19th-century novel is re-contextualized to the postwar era in Luchino Visconti’s second feature La terra trema (1948). This story follows a Sicilian fishing family as they strive to rise up out of poverty, but face obstacles and hardships at every turn. The theme of destiny, and staying trapped in a lower economic standing, is reinforced through rhythmic, recurring sounds & images, and staged through powerful mise-en-scene of the geography & geology of the film’s Aci Trezza setting. This neorealist marvel is an important entry during a defining moment of Italian cinematic history.

Links:

• Pasolini 100: Mamma Roma | The Gospel According to St. Matthew | The Decameron | Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom
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This episode features music excerpts from the film’s soundtrack.