Studying Italian Cinema

Intended as much for students of Italian as of Film Studies, "Studying Italian Cinema" provides an accessible introduction to one of the most influential of European film industries.

Beginning with an overview of post-war Italian Neorealism, author Adalgisa Serio Henry provides in-depth coverage of such classic films as "Rome Open City" and "Bicycle Thieves" before moving on to consider Neorealism's legacy through the likes of "The Battle of Algiers" and "Amarcord." Moving on to the contemporary Italian cinema, Henry considers depictions of the family (in such films as "The Ignorant Fairies" and "The Last Kiss"), representations of women, and, crucially, film as a social and political comment (including such recent award-winners as "Gomorra" and "Il Divo").

Along the way a number of other highly influential films are discussed, all of which ensures that "Studying Italian Cinema" offers a fresh, contemporary perspective on a vibrant national cinema.