Directed and co-written by Roberto Rossellini, Rome, Open City (1945) is back in cinemas: a seminal work of Italian neorealism, and it remains a poignant and powerful film still in 2024.  Set during the Nazi occupation of Rome in 1944, the film follows the lives of ordinary Italians as they resist oppression.  It is filled with moments of tragedy, wit, heroism and humour.

Anna Magnani’s performance as Pina, a widowed mother, is heart-wrenching and unforgettable, capturing the spirit and resilience of the Italian people.  Aldo Fabrizi, as the courageous priest Don Pietro, offers a deeply human performance, blending moments of warmth and humour with profound moral integrity.

One of the film’s most compelling aspects is its raw, unfiltered depiction of life under occupation. Shot on location in the war-torn streets of Rome using non-professional actors alongside seasoned performers, the film exudes authenticity whilst remaining accessible. The cinematography, marked by its use of natural light and handheld cameras, immerses viewers in the harsh realities faced by the characters. This technique, whilst drawing on precursors such as Rossellini’s La nave bianca (1941), was still relatively novel at the time and continues to resonate in an era where audiences crave genuine, immersive storytelling.

Rome, Open City (1945) forms part of the May–June 2024 season at the BFI Southbank, entitled “Chasing the Real: Italian Neorealism”. For those looking for beautiful cinematography alongside a pertinent reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom, this specific film, and the season more broadly, are certainly worth a watch.

Book online for more neorealism at the BFI Southbank website.