Italy has been producing some of the finest movies since the early days of film. From classic romantic comedies to modern-day thrillers, the country has a long history of producing some of the most iconic films of all time. But with so many great Italian films out there, it can be hard to decide which ones to watch. To help you out, here are the top 8 movies from Italy you should watch.
1. La Dolce Vita (1960)
This classic Italian comedy-drama was directed by Federico Fellini and stars Marcello Mastroianni, Anita Ekberg, and Anouk Aimée. It follows the life of Marcello Rubini, a journalist who is trying to find some meaning in his life. Along the way, he meets a variety of characters and experiences the glamour and decadence of Rome. La Dolce Vita is considered to be one of the greatest films of all time and is a must-watch for any film lover.
2. Cinema Paradiso (1988)
This critically acclaimed film was directed by Giuseppe Tornatore and stars Philippe Noiret, Jacques Perrin, and Salvatore Cascio. It follows a young boy named Salvatore, who is obsessed with movies. He meets Alfredo, an elderly projectionist, and the two become close friends. Cinema Paradiso is a heartwarming tale about the power of friendship and the beauty of cinema.
3. Life is Beautiful (1997)
This touching drama was directed by Roberto Benigni and stars Benigni, Nicoletta Braschi, and Giorgio Cantarini. It follows a Jewish family living in Italy during World War II. When the family is sent to a concentration camp, the father uses his wits and humor to protect his son from the horrors of the camp. Life is Beautiful is a heartbreaking yet uplifting story of courage and love.
4. The Bicycle Thief (1948)
This classic Italian neorealist film was directed by Vittorio De Sica and stars Lamberto Maggiorani and Enzo Staiola. It tells the story of a man who is trying to find a stolen bicycle in order to support his family. The Bicycle Thief is considered to be one of the most influential films of all time and is a masterful exploration of the human spirit in a time of great struggle.
5. 8 ½ (1963)
This surrealist masterpiece was directed by Federico Fellini and stars Marcello Mastroianni, Claudia Cardinale, and Anouk Aimée. It follows a film director who is struggling to come up with his next project. 8 ½ is a fascinating exploration of creativity and the artistic process and is considered one of the greatest films ever made.
6. The Great Beauty (2013)
This modern-day classic was directed by Paolo Sorrentino and stars Toni Servillo, Carlo Verdone, and Sabrina Ferilli. It follows an aging writer who discovers the decadence and beauty of Rome. The Great Beauty is a visually stunning exploration of life and the choices we make.
7. The Leopard (1963)
This classic Italian period drama was directed by Luchino Visconti and stars Burt Lancaster, Alain Delon, and Claudia Cardinale. It follows a Sicilian prince who is trying to maintain his family’s status and power in a changing world. The Leopard is an epic exploration of power, duty, and family.
8. The Godfather (1972)
This iconic crime drama was directed by Francis Ford Coppola and stars Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, and Robert Duvall. It follows the Corleone family, which is trying to maintain its power and influence in the criminal underworld. The Godfather is an iconic film that has had a huge influence on the crime genre.
These are just some of the many great Italian films that you should watch. From classic comedies to modern-day thrillers, Italy has produced some of the most iconic films of all time. So if you’re looking for a great movie night, why not try one of these Italian classics?
