Visit Italy With Movies

Pier Paolo Pasolini and the fascinating Roman locations

Written by chiara.dibacco3 Luglio 2023

From ‘La Rabbia’ to ‘Vita violenta’

Pier Paolo Pasolini, one of the greatest Italian directors and intellectuals of the 20th century, left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. All due to his unique connection with Rome, the eternal city, particularly significant in his artistic career. In this article, we will explore two of his most emblematic films, ‘La Rabbia’ (1963) and ‘Vita violenta’ (1962). Focusing on the evocative Roman locations that played a fundamental role in the narrative and visual context of the works.

‘La Rabbia’ is a documentary film by Pasolini that deals with political and social issues of the time, with a focus on Italian contradictions. Set mainly in the suburbs of Rome, the film uses a combination of archive images, everyday life sequences and interviews. Fundamental tool to explore the anger and frustration that permeated Italian society at the time.

The locations chosen by Pasolini for ‘La Rabbia’ are emblematic of his desire to represent the social reality of Rome. Suburban neighbourhoods, such as the Ostia district and EUR (Rome Universal Exhibition), serve as the backdrop for the stories of ordinary people. Pasolini intentionally avoided the iconic and touristy areas, such as the Colosseum or Piazza Navona, to focus on a more authentic vision of the city.

“Vita violenta’ tells the story of a young man seekinga way out from the misery of his existence. The film, overall, focuses on the Trastevere district, an area that Pasolini loved and that represented popular Roman life. The narrow, winding streets of Trastevere become the theatre for the adventures of the protagonist, played by Franco Citti. Pasolini explores the alleys, squares and hidden corners of this neighbourhood, capturing the unique energy and character of Trastevere.

Significant is the choice of this location, as the neighbourhood represents a meeting place for rebels and bohemian artists. Thus offering an authentic atmosphere to tell the story of an alienated young man looking for a better life.

To conclude, Pier Paolo Pasolini made masterful use of Roman locations to create an immersive and authentic cinematic experience. By choosing suburbs and working-class neighbourhoods as the backdrop for his stories, Pasolini was able to portray the social reality and contradictions of Italian society.

Watch the full movies at www.movieitalyplus.com or watch the clips at www.visititalywithmovies.com

Click here to read more articles!

Read More
Cinema Pills, Italian culture & Cinema

Sicily and the Fight against the Mafia

Written by chiara.dibacco30 Maggio 2023

One Hundred Steps Through History and Landscapes

The film “I Cento Passi” (One Hundred Steps) is an Italian movie from 2000, directed by Marco Tullio Giordana, which tells the true story of Peppino Impastato, a young Sicilian political activist who opposed the mafia.

Primarily set in Sicily, an Italian region known for its breathtaking landscapes and ancient history. Sicily offers a variety of settings, ranging from sandy coasts to majestic mountains, from picturesque villages to charming urban centers.

“I Cento Passi” unfolds in the town of Cinisi, located in the province of Palermo. The town, with its narrow streets and characteristic traditional buildings, provides an authentic and evocative backdrop for the film’s narrative. Viewers can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Sicily, with its vibrant colors, weathered building facades, and the vibrant energy of daily life.

However, the film doesn’t confine itself to Cinisi. It also explores other parts of Sicily, such as Palermo, the regional capital, with its historic monuments, bustling streets, and traditional markets. Additionally, the film features scenes set in natural landscapes like the beaches of Mondello, famous for their crystal-clear waters, and the surrounding hills that offer breathtaking views of the coastline.

Moreover, Sicily is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and the film doesn’t shy away from showcasing some typical Sicilian dishes. Images of tables filled with specialties like arancini, cannoli, pasta alla norma, and Sicilian granita can be savored, adding an authentic touch and flavor to the story.

In conclusion, “I Cento Passi” not only delivers a powerful story of courage and the fight against the mafia but also captures the beauty and diversity of Sicilian landscapes. Sicily becomes an integral part of the plot, providing visually appealing and engaging context for the film.

Watch clips and discover fantastic italian places at www.visititalywithmovies.com or watch the full movie at www.movieitalyplus.com

Click here to read more articles!

Read More
Italian culture & Cinema

Cinecittà: eternal and magical heritage of Italian cinema

Written by chiara.dibacco24 Maggio 2023

Cinecittà is a large film studio complex located in Rome, Italy. It was founded in 1937 by the fascist government of Benito Mussolini. Mainly to establish a center of Italian cinema and promoting the country’s cultural and political values. Cinecittà is not only a place of film production. It is also a symbol of the Italian film industry and of all Italian culture.

In its early years, Cinecittà produced a series of propaganda films, including historical epics such as “Scipio l’Africano” and “Luciano Serra, Pilota,”. Film celebrating the greatness of the Roman Empire and Italian fascism. However, in the 50s and 60s, Cinecittà saw the growth of a new generation of directors. Federico Fellini, Roberto Rossellini and Vittorio De Sica, used the studio to create some of the most acclaimed films in the history of Italian cinema. Renowned title as “La dolce vita,” “Roma città aperta” and “Ladri di biciclette.”

In the 70s and 80s, Cinecittà declined due to competition from foreign film studios and the decrease government funding. However, in the 1990s, the studio saw a revival, with the launch of new projects such as “Ben Hur” and “Gangs of New York.” Today, Cinecittà is one of the largest film studios in Europe, with 19 production halls and a range of production support services. The studio has also been the set of many successful international productions, such as “The Great Beauty,” “Gladiator” and “Mission: Impossible III.”

Today, Cinecittà is a complex of film studios, theaters and exhibition spaces offering a wide range of services to audiovisual productions. Among Cinecittà’s main activities are the production and rental of technical equipment for filming. Moreover, the creation of sets and scenery, makeup and costume design, and audio and video post-production.

Cinecittà has been transformed into a cultural hub open to the public, with an extensive program of events. They curate exhibitions, and activities ranging from music and theater to fashion and design. Places for visitors include the Cinecittà Museum, telling the story of Italian and international cinema, and Cinecittà World, a theme park entirely dedicated to cinema.

Additionally, Cinecittà is a training ground for the next generation of filmmakers. Holding a famous film school and a program of internships for young aspiring directors, screenwriters, actors, and film technicians.

Discover our movies at www.movieitalyplus.com or watch clips at www.visititalywithmovies.com

To read more articles click here!

Read More