Italian neorealism facts for kids
A still shot from Rome, Open City (1945).
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| Years active | 1944–1952 |
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| Country | Italy |
| Major figures | Roberto Rossellini, Vittorio De Sica, Cesare Zavattini, Luchino Visconti, Giuseppe De Santis, Suso Cecchi d'Amico, Federico Fellini |
| Influences | Poetic realism, Marxism, Christian humanism |
| Influenced | French New Wave, Cinema Novo Iranian New Wave |
Italian neorealism (Italian: Neorealismo) was a special film movement in Italy. It is also known as the Golden Age of Italian Cinema. These films told stories about poor and working-class people. They were often filmed in real places, not just in studios. Many times, they used regular people instead of famous actors. Italian neorealism movies often showed the tough times in Italy right after World War II. They explored poverty, unfairness, and the struggles of everyday life.
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How Italian Neorealism Started
Italy After World War II
Italian neorealism began when World War II ended. Italy's leader, Benito Mussolini, lost power. This caused big changes in the Italian film industry. Many film studios, like Cinecittà, were badly damaged during the war. So, filmmakers had to shoot movies on the streets.
This new style of filmmaking showed a cultural shift in Italy. It was a sign of social progress. These films presented new stories and ideas about modern Italy.
What Makes Neorealist Films Special
Using Real People as Actors
Neorealist films often used people who were not professional actors. Sometimes, famous actors were cast in main roles. But they would play very different characters than usual. The background scenes were filled with local people, not paid extras.
Filming in Real Locations
These movies were almost always filmed outside. They used real places like rundown cities and rural areas. This was because of the damage from the war. It also helped make the films feel more real.
Stories About Everyday Life
Neorealist films usually showed the lives of poor and working-class people. The characters often lived in simple societies. Their main goal was just to survive. The acting looked very natural. It showed people doing everyday things without seeming like they were acting.
Children in Neorealist Films
Many neorealist films featured children in important roles. However, these child characters often watched what was happening more than they actively participated. They helped show the world through innocent eyes.
Images for kids
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Wandering Musicians by Italian neorealist artist Bruno Caruso (1953)
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Italian neorealist artist Bruno Caruso in Istanbul (1954)
See also
In Spanish: Neorrealismo italiano para niños
