Life is Beautiful
This incredible film cemented the reputation of director, co-writer and star Roberto Benigni forever in the hearts of Italian cinema goers. This story beginning in Mussolini’s Italy , deservedly became an international success on its release bagging Oscars for Best Foreign Language Film and Best Actor. As a film it is a little difficult to categorise, but in it Benigni manages to merge excellent and intelligent comedy with terror, tragedy and a build up of tension that is awe-inspiring - throughout all of this he managed to thread the twin themes of love and hope without ever losing track. To tell you more about this great film would be superfluous, but if you only ever see one Italian movie make sure this is the one.
This subtle, easygoing comedy follows the adventures of a group of Italian soldiers marooned on a Greek island during World War II after their ship sinks. The story follows their changing attitudes over time to the locals they share the island with and the war itself. The humour sometimes lightweight, occasionally crude finds a perfect foil against the background of petty rivalries and picturesque locations.
Mediterraneo
