One of the first posts on this site (way back in 2009) was about TIFF Cinematheque’s Italian Cinema showcase. I noted then that Italian films from the 50’s and 60’s were probably some of my favourite movies of all time. In part because I grew up watching them, and also because they still hold up so many years later. Well, starting this month TIFF Cinematheque will be showcasing more gems of Italian Cinema, this time focusing on films starring the incomparable Anna Magnani. If you’re not familiar with La Magnani’s body of work, this is your chance to see some of her most brilliant performances on the big screen. It’s the perfect wintertime date idea! More info after the jump!
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Gems of Italian Cinema
I guess it’s a little too late to let you guys know about the “Signore and Signore: Leading Ladies of the Italian Cinema” event happening at the Cinematheque Ontario, since it ends today. Boohoo! I am sure those of you that love Italian cinema have already heard all about it and have gone, and those that haven’t…well, you should definitely check it out next time!
I grew up watching a lot of foreign films, and even though Soviet films will always have a special place in my heart (Devchata, Bril’yantovaya Ruka, Operaciya I, etc), Italian films from the 50s and 60s are one of my all time favorites! I think it’s the combination of great stories, amazing actors, sharp fashions, and the language! Plus Marcello Mastroianni’s good looks don’t hurt either!
I am re-watching an old-time favorite “Nights of Cabiria” tonight! Cannot wait! Am super disappointed that Cinematheque Ontario did not include “Marriage Italian Style” in their lineup. Sofia Loren is the leading lady of Italian Cinema, and yet this comedic masterpiece by De Sica was grossly overlooked this time around (she is both hilarious and heartbreaking as the main character Filumena). Considering that Loren’s name is the first one that pops into anyone’s head, it’s a little surprising that they only included one movie featuring the actress. Hopefully they’ll include “Marriage Italian Style” next time, because this movie is all sorts of amazing!
Click for more “Marriage Italian Style” stills and a couple of my Italian favorites!
