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Giancarlo Giannini: the Italian who reached the stars

Giancarlo Giannini is an Italian actor, filmmaker, screenwriter and voice actor, who has achieved international success in both Italian and American cinema. While he may not be as widely recognized as some other Italian actors, he has made notable contributions to the film industry and has gained a significant following throughout his career.

Born on August 1, 1942, in La Spezia, Italy, Giannini began his acting career in the late 1960s. He gained recognition in Italy particularly for his collaborations with director Lina Wertmüller. Giannini and Wertmüller worked together on several films, including “The Seduction of Mimi” (1972), “Love and Anarchy” (1973), and “Seven Beauties” (1975), which earned Giannini an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. These films helped establish Giannini as a talented actor in the Italian film industry.

Giannini’s success in Italy eventually led him to work in American cinema. In 1976, he starred alongside Brooke Shields in the film “A Little Romance,” directed by George Roy Hill. The film received critical acclaim and introduced Giannini to a broader international audience. He continued to appear in American films, such as “Hannibal” (2001), where he portrayed the character Inspector Renaldo Pazzi opposite Anthony Hopkins. Giannini’s performances showcased his versatility and acting prowess, which allowed him to seamlessly transition between Italian and American productions.

A huge success abroad came with his role in the 2006 James Bond film “Casino Royale.” He portrayed the character René Mathis, who is a French liaison for the British Secret Service. Mathis assists James Bond, played by Daniel Craig, in his mission to infiltrate and disrupt a high-stakes poker game organized by Le Chiffre, the main antagonist of the film.

Giannini’s portrayal of René Mathis was well-received, and he brought a sense of charm and sophistication to the character. He reprised his role as Mathis in the sequel, “Quantum of Solace,” released in 2008. In the film, Mathis continues to assist Bond in his pursuit of uncovering a global conspiracy.

In march 2023, at the age of 80, the great Italian actor received the prestigious Star on the Hollywood Walk of fame, the acknowledgement of a great career, universally recognized in the global film industry. Giannini has undoubtedly left his mark, he has worked with esteemed directors and actors and has consistently delivered strong performances throughout his career. His talent and contributions to both Italian and American cinema have made him a respected and admired figure in the film world.

Watch the full movies of the Giancarlo Giannini’s collection on www.movieitalyplus.com or watch the movie clips on www.visitaitalywithmovies.com

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Franco e Ciccio: The Comic Duo That Made Italy Laugh

Franco e Ciccio, also known as Franco Franchi and Ciccio Ingrassia, were a famous Italian comedy duo active mainly in the 1960s and 1970s. Their comedy was characterised by physical gags, hilarious dialogue and an innate ability to improvise.

Franco Franchi, born on 18 September 1928 in Palermo, Sicily, and Ciccio Ingrassia, born on 5 October 1922 in Palermo, started their artistic career as theatre and cabaret actors. They later achieved great success in Italian cinema, becoming one of the country’s best-loved comedy duos.

One of the best known films in which they starred is ‘Don Quixote’, released in 1968 and directed by Giovanni Grimaldi. The film is a comedy freely inspired by Miguel de Cervantes’ famous novel ‘Don Quixote de la Mancha’. Francio and Ciccio play Don Quixote and Sancho Panza respectively, bringing their comedy into the context of the classic story.

Another important film in their filmography is ‘Ku-Fu? Dalla Sicilia con furore’, released in 1973 and directed by Nando Cicero. In this film, Francio and Ciccio play two small-time crooks who find themselves involved in a series of adventures set in Sicily. The title of the film refers to the Chinese martial art of kung fu, which is comically parodied by the two actors.

“2 Mattacchioni al Moulin Rouge” is a 1964 film directed by Carlo Infascelli. In this film, Francio and Ciccio play two Sicilians who travel to Paris to seek their fortune, but find themselves involved in comic and adventurous situations at the famous Moulin Rouge nightclub.

The duo Franchi and Ingrassia worked together in numerous other films, becoming an icon of Italian comedy. Their comic interpretations and unique style have left an indelible mark on the Italian film scene, making them a reference point for many generations of viewers.

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Pier Paolo Pasolini and the fascinating Roman locations

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.

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Milan and its cinema

The city of Milan has always been a reference point for Italian and international cinema. Thanks to its futuristic architecture, lively streets and nightlife, the city has become a place of inspiration for many film directors and producers.

One of the most famous films set in Milan is certainly ‘Ricomincio da tre’ by Massimo Troisi. Telling the story of Gaetano, a young Neapolitan who moves to Milan in search of work. The film was mainly shot in the Porta Ticinese area, and has become a classic of Italian cinema.

Another film set in Milan is ‘La notte’ by Michelangelo Antonioni, a story about a literary critic spending the night in the city for inspiration. The film was shot in several locations in the city, including the Torre Velasca, the Monumental Cemetery and the Central Station.

Milan has also been chosen as a location for many international films, such as Steven Soderbergh’s ‘Ocean’s Twelve’. Where Brad Pitt and George Clooney filmed some scenes in the city centre. Milan was also chosen as the backdrop for the film ‘Nine’ by Rob Marshall, starring Nicole Kidman and Penélope Cruz.

But it is not only the architectural beauty of Milan that has been immortalised on the silver screen. The city has also been chosen for many action scenes, such as in the film ‘The Italian Job’ by F. Gary Gray, in which a gang of thieves carries out a spectacular robbery in a Mini Cooper through the streets of Milan.

In short, the city of Milan has a long tradition of connection with the cinema, thanks to its beauty, vibrancy and culture. Cinema has been able to immortalise the city over time, making Milan a place of inspiration for film directors from all over the world.

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Testaccio, the city’s set

Rome’s Testaccio district has long been a landmark for the Italian film scene. Between the 40s and 50s, many directors and actors settled in this popular neighbourhood. Mainly attracted by its lively atmosphere and its proximity to the EUR film studios.

Testaccio inspired many directors to shoot films in this neighbourhood, including Federico Fellini with ‘Roma’ (1972) and Nanni Moretti with ‘La messa è finita’ (1985). The district served as a backdrop for many other Italian films. Nanni Moretti’s ‘Bianca’ (1983), Pier Paolo Pasolini’s ‘Mamma Roma’ (1962) and Gabriele Muccino’s ‘L’ultimo bacio’ (2001).

Today, Testaccio continues to be a vibrant and lively neighbourhood with many trendy cafés, restaurants and bars. The neighbourhood is also home to the well-known Cinema Museum of Rome, which houses a vast collection of objects and memorabilia.

The Testaccio district has become an icon of Italian cinema and continues to attract filmmakers, actors and film enthusiasts from all over the world. Known for its lively nightlife, Testaccio is also famous for its gastronomy, with restaurants and trattorias. Serving traditional Roman cuisine and local specialities such as artichokes alla giudia and pasta alla gricia. The neighbourhood has a long tradition of cultural and artistic activities.

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Tuscany – The cinematographic region

Tuscany has often been the harmonious and beautiful location of important films known all over the world.
A Region appreciated by directors and screenwriters, not only within the Italian borders, but also in Hollywood. Thus becoming the setting for world-famous films that have received Oscar awards and important awards.

The romantic streets, Renaissance palaces, and churches of the Val d’Orcia, were the set of the movie “The English Patient” (9 Oscar awards in 1996). At the close of World War II, a young nurse tends to a badly-burned plane crash victim. His past is shown in flashbacks, revealing an involvement in a fateful love affair.

The film that perhaps more than any other has enhanced the Val d’Orcia is “Gladiator” by Ridley Scott. There are two emblematic scenes from the film shot here. Firstly, the Gladiator’s house, set of the dramatic episode of the murder of his family. Secondly the famous finale in which the gladiator caresses the ripe wheat in the Elysian Fields.

Franco Zeffirelli directed some of his cult films in the Val d’Orcia. Particularly in Pienza, where the great master Franco Zeffirelli directed “Romeo and Juliet”. Some of the main scenes were shot in the courtyard of Palazzo Piccolomini and some are divided between Piazza Pio II and Corso Rossellino. The film “Brother sun sister moon” was shot in Val d’Orcia too. This movie is about the life of St. Francis of Assisi from his conversion experience to his audience with the pope.

The Taviani brothers also chose the Val d’Orcia for their film “Wondrous Boccaccio”, where 10 young friends hide out from the plague during the 1300s.

Pienza and Montepulciano have also been the location of recent films such as “New Moon – The Twilight saga” and “The Medici” series. While set in the region’s capital of Florence, much of the filming takes place on location around Tuscany, like Volterra, Montepulciano Pistoia, Pienza.


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The Italian war film that made history

That Damned Armoured Train

“That Damned Armoured Train” is a 1978 Italian film directed by Enzo G. Castellari and starring a stellar cast, including Bo Svenson, Fred Williamson, Peter Hooten, Michael Pergolani and Raimund Harmstorf. The film, set during World War II, tells the story of a group of American prisoners. Trying vigorously to steal a Nazi’s train, to finance the French resistance. The feature film was a great success with critics and audiences and received numerous international awards and prizes. It is considered one of the best Italian war films of all time and has influenced numerous directors and producers of genre films.

The film follows the leader of the gang, Bo Svenson, and his comrades, as they attempt to rob a train loaded with Nazi gold. Their goal is to finance the French resistance, however, the German officer hunting them down, will complicate their mission.

The film was shot on a limited budget, but made the most of its resources. Thanks to the use of intense cinematography and tight editing to create an atmosphere of tension and suspense. In addition, the film’s action scenes were acclaimed for their intensity and realism, making ‘That Damn Armoured Train’ a cult film among fans of the genre. The film is also known for its soundtrack, composed by Riz Ortolani, who created a series of memorable motifs that intertwine with the film’s scenes, giving it an epic and engaging tone.

“That Damned Armoured Train” is remembered as a classic example of Italian exploitation cinema and is often discussed in the context of cult films from the late 1970s. An iconic Italian war film that has influenced numerous directors and producers of genre films. Its compelling story, intense action scenes and epic soundtrack still make it a cult film loved by fans of the genre.

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Rome on screen: an everlasting love story

The relationship between Rome and cinema is a long-lasting relationship, since the Eternal City has always been the scene of incredible sets, thanks to the variety of its landscapes and monuments, perfect locations for films of yesterday and today.


Although already known, cinema has helped to expand, in several cases, the fame of many monuments consecrating them for eternity. Thanks to the masterpieces of cinema, many views of the Italian capital city are now associated with scenes or characters; this is the case of the Fontana di Trevi and The Dolce Vita, or the Bocca della verità and Roman Holidays, but also the Colosseum and Un americano a Roma or, in more recent times, the Eur lake and L’ultimo bacio or the Gianicolo’s fountain and The Great Beauty.
Walk the streets and neighborhoods where famous films were shot, can carry you within the film in question or live again one beloved scene.

If you want to dive into the magic atmospheres of the Eternal City you cannot miss these titles and their magic locations:


Il Marchese del Grillo: masterpiece of Mario Monicelli with the great Alberto Sordi. It is the perfect film to relive Rome in nineteenth century. Between the great monuments and the lesser known alleys, you are transported to the past with laughter! Among the most iconic locations: The Loggia dei Cavalieri di Rodi, Castel Sant’Angelo and the Roman Forum.

Love Italian way: Film a episodi that tells the vices, habits and costumes of Italian society of the 60s. Among the most beautiful scenes on the terrace that show the views of Sant’Agnese in Agone, the Palace of Justice and San Salvatore in Lauro.

Too bad she’s bad: Marcello Mastroianni and Sophia Loren in this funny fresco of Rome in the 50s. Between adventures and racing in the car Rome looks more beautiful than ever thanks to its wonderful monuments: The mouth of truth, the Colosseum and San Pietro.

Love & Anarchy: Lina Wertmuller directs Giancarlo Giannini and Mariangela Melato in a masterpiece of Italian cinema nominated for the Palme d’Or at Cannes. Revenge and love at the time of the fascist dictatorship between the views of Rome: from Piazza di San Pietro in montorio to the splendid Gianicolo.

All titles are available on www.movieitalyplus.com

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Monica Vitti, two souls of a unique artist

5 David di Donatello, 3 Silver Ribbons, 12 Golden Globes, 1 ciak d’oro, 1 Golden Lion.

During the 60s, Ms Vitti embodied the neurosis of Italian society, only to cure them with laughs and comedy during the 70s. After graduating at the Rome’s National Academy of Dramatic Arts, Monica worked first in the theatre and then as a voice actor. Cinema came after being noticed by Michelangelo Antonioni, who became her partner in life and at work.

Antonioni wanted her for his “trilogy of incommunicability”, three black and white films, with unforgettable scenes and roles. Consequently these film became an important part of the history of Italian cinema. In the first movie, L’Avventura (1960), Vitti is the tormented Claudia; La Notte(1961) she is the girl who seduces Marcello Mastroianni. Finally L’Eclisse (1962), she plays Vittoria, a young literary translator.

In 1967, her relationship with Antonioni was over and Ms Vitti decided to reinvent herself, acting in comedy movies. The very popular Commedia all’Italiana – allowing the public to discover an unusual side of herself. She acted in comedies with directors like Roger Vadim, Luciano Salce, Tinto Brass. Mainly thanks to her acting skills, Ms Vitti managed to create unforgettable comedy characters and roles that have become part of the history of Italian cinema. The great Adelaide in Dramma Della Gelosia by Ettore Scola or Ninì Tirabusciò in “La donna che Inventò la Mossa” ,Teresa in “Teresa la Ladra”. She also performed along with the most famous comedians of the times, from Alberto Sordi to Ugo Tognazzi.

Two more unforgettable performances of the great actress are In “La ragazza con la pistola”, directed by Mario Monicelli. Here Monica is Assunta Patanè, a Sicilian girl who moves to the UK, seeking revenge after being abandoned. In addition, “La pacifista” directed by Miklós Jancsó when she acted with Pierre Clémenti. Monica Vitti was not only a great artist, but also a genuine Italian, given that constant dichotomy between comedy and drama. Undoubtedly, she was perfect and credible in both dramatic and comedic roles, making people laugh and cry like no one else. Monica Vitti was a unique artist. She embodied the two souls of Italy, the perpetual changing between drama and farce, comedy and tragedy, sadness and happiness.

Discover clips with Monica Vitti at www.visititalywithmovies.com and her incredible films at www.movieitalyplus.com

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Fernando Di Leo, the director who inspired Quentin Tarantino

Screenwriter and director, Fernando di Leo is one of the most interesting authors of Italian cinema from the 1960s onwards. Master of garish, intricately plotted, ultra-violent stories about pimps and petty gangsters. Di Leo explored the political extremism and mafia corruption in Italy during the 1970’s.

After briefly working in Rome’s film school Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia, Fernando Di Leo wrote several scripts for Westerns, often uncredited. This included work on A Fistful of Dollars and For a Few Dollars More. Later on, di Leo specialized in the noir genre and was inspired by the violent novels of Giorgio Scerbanenco. Afterwards, he was fiercely committed to making movies that addressed contemporary social and political issues.

One special admirer is Quentin Tarantino. Who modeled Pulp Fiction’s three-variations-on-a-theme structure on Di Leo’s “Milieu trilogy”: Caliber 9 (1972). A small-time gangster long-suspected of stealing $300,000 from a Milanese boss . The film, The Italian Connection, offers some early models for the wisecracking, laconic hitmen played by John Travolta and Samuel L Jackson in Pulp Fiction.

Tarantino recalled “One of the first films I watched was pivotal to my choice of profession was I Padroni della Città (Mister Scarface). I had never even heard the name Fernando Di Leo before. I just remember that after watching that film I was totally hooked. I became obsessed and started systematically watching other films directed by Di Leo. I owe so much to Fernando in terms of passion and filmmaking”.

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