The Influence of Italian Neorealism on Modern Cinema
Hello there, fellow film lovers! Have you ever watched a movie and though “Ah, that feels so real?” If yes, then you’ve probably had a taste of the influence of Italian Neorealism. Now, I don’t consider myself Fellini or De Sica but let me tell you, friends, appreciating this movement has made my cinematic adventures more colourful and engaging! And it does make for an interesting conversation at parties!
So, What’s Italian Neorealism?
Well, here’s a mini history lesson. In the post-World War II era, film directors in Italy began a movement that changed how stories were told on-screen. They decided to ditch fanciful sets and melodramatic scripts, instead embracing ‘the real’ – using natural locations, non-professional actors and focusing on social issues
.[1]Why Should We Care?
I mean, why should we bother about some old Italian trend, right? Here’s why – because it inspired many facets of modern cinema! You see, the impact of Italian Neorealism can be seen in the gritty reality of Scorsese’s New York or even the rustic allure of an A24 indie film.
- It’s All About Storytelling
- Location, Location, Location
- The Power of the Everyday
It’s All About Storytelling
The first time I watched “Ladri di biciclette” (Bicycle Thieves), I was struck by its storytelling. It was so natural, so everyday and yet, deeply impactful. Fast-forward to today, when I watch “Parasite” or “Joker”, I can see the influence of the ‘simple story told strongly’ principle of Italian Neorealism.
Location, Location, Location
You remember how the grimy, teeming streets in Taxi Driver add to the overall ambience? Italian Neorealism, folks. The movement cemented the practice of using authentic locations, thereby making the film more than just a story but a capture of time & place – a slice of life if you will.
The Power of the Everyday
What makes Amélie or even the recent ‘The Florida Project’ so endearing? It’s the relatability, the connection we feel to the characters’ everyday lives. That’s Italian Neorealism for you. It taught cinema the power of the quotidian, the ordinary.
So there you have it. Now, next time you’re enjoying a movie and find yourself submerged in the on-screen reality, remember to pay your respects to those Italian visionaries of the mid-20th century. Grab a cannoli while you’re at it!
- Landysh, 2018, ‘Realism in the Film Theory of Sergei Eisenstein and André Bazin’.[1]
Until next time, folks! Happy movie watching!