“The Hand of God” is a semi-autobiographical tale a young man in Naples whose life is transformed when a terrible tragedy pushes him from an idyllic childhood to somber adulthood.
#26: The Great Beauty (Paolo Sorrentino, 2013)
This sprawling work examines Roman high society, as well as broader themes of artistry, beauty, and experiences both individual and collective.
#25: I vitelloni (Federico Fellini, 1953) & I basilischi (Lina Wertmüller, 1963)
Discussing two tales of young men, directionless and in limbo, and exploring their thematic similarities & differences.
City of Women (1980)
Fellini’s 1980 film reflects an impotence, both figurative and literal, of man in the era of feminism.
#24: Domenica d’agosto (Luciano Emmer, 1950)
Discussing this example of “pink neorealism” as well as its themes of class, regionalism, and more.
#23: Luca (Enrico Casarosa, 2021)
“Luca” has rich overtones of a coming out story dealing with identity and acceptance, as well as numerous references to Italian culture, music, and more cinema italiano.
#22: Human Capital (Paolo Virzì, 2013)
Class, wealth, and power are at the forefront of Paolo Virzì’s award-winning drama.
#21: The Passionate Thief (Mario Monicelli, 1960)
Mario Monicelli’s New Year’s Eve-set comedy surfaces generational divides, power dynamics, and deception.
#20: The Best of 2020
Counting down the top 5 Italian films of 2020.
#19: Cinema Italian Style 2020
Notturno, Padrenostro, Lacci (The Ties), and more!
Cinema Italiano Podcast 