23 Films by Director Federico Fellini
23 titles
- 1
I VitelloniMovie · 1953 · 103m · Comedy, DramaIn a charming Italian village, five young men pursue their ambitions while facing everyday difficulties. Fausto, a driven womanizer, clashes with his pregnant wife, impacting the group's dynamic. Riccardo seeks fame, Alberto lives in daydreams, Moraldo dreams of city life, and Leopoldo hopes to become a famous playwright.
Their lives unfold through ordinary moments and big dreams. The film examines ambition, friendship, and self-discovery, exploring each character’s individual journey with a gentle touch. Ultimately, this story about human nature shows how shared aspirations connect people in a beautiful village setting.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 2
The SwindleMovie · 1955 · 113m · Drama, CrimeAugusto, an aging small-time con artist, takes on two eager young apprentices: Roberto, a singer dreaming of becoming Italy's next big star, and Bruno, nicknamed Picasso for his clever schemes. Together, they operate in the city's hidden world, planning elaborate cons and heists to stay one step ahead of the police.
As their partnership develops, a series of problems and complicated relationships test Augusto’s carefully constructed life of deception. Meanwhile, Roberto grapples with balancing fame and crime, while Picasso questions the ethics of his work.
The film examines loyalty and betrayal, ambition and redemption, set against a vibrant, dangerous backdrop where artistry and crime intersect. As Augusto's carefully planned future falls apart, the audience wonders if the pursuit of success justifies the personal costs in this complex game of survival.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 3
Spirits of the DeadMovie · 1968 · 121m · Horror, Mystery, DramaThis film is an anthology of frightening stories, directed by three renowned European filmmakers, each based on the dark tales of Edgar Allan Poe. The first story features a cruel countess haunted by a ghostly horse, forced to confront her wickedness and guilt. The second follows a troubled young man tormented by a menacing double, as reality and nightmare become indistinguishable. Finally, an alcoholic actor is stalked by the Devil himself in a chilling tale about addiction, despair, and supernatural suffering. These gripping, dark stories explore themes of guilt, identity, and the unknown, adapting Poe's classics for today's viewers.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.2 - 4
La StradaMovie · 1954 · 115m · DramaSet in a traveling Italian circus, the story follows Gelsomina, a sheltered young woman whose life changes when she is acquired by the gruff strongman Zampanò to be his wife and performance partner. She endures his harshness, but remains loyal as they travel and perform.
Their life shifts when Gelsomina meets Il Matto, a kind circus fool with whom she quickly connects. As they perform together and face challenges, Gelsomina's friendship with Il Matto awakens a desire for independence and belonging, making her question her commitment to Zampanò.
This moving story explores love, loyalty, and self-discovery through the complicated relationships between these three characters as they navigate emotions and seek connection in a difficult world.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.9 - 5
RomaMovie · 1972 · 120m · Comedy, DramaThe film presents a visually rich portrayal of Rome, seen through the eyes of a prominent local. It uses an experimental, impressionistic style, prioritizing vivid imagery and evocative scenes over a traditional plot. The narrative is fragmented, but the film's stunning visuals immerse the audience in the city's beauty, energy, and appeal. Every scene captures Rome’s unique character, leaving a lasting impression of its charm.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 6
SatyriconMovie · 1969 · 129m · Drama, FantasyEncolpio's life falls apart when Gitone leaves him for someone else, leading him to consider suicide. But a devastating earthquake destroys his home, thrusting him into a chaotic and surreal Rome under Emperor Nero.
Lost in the city, Encolpio meets a cast of odd characters and experiences bizarre events. Rome feels unfamiliar and dreamlike, mirroring his emotional turmoil. Forced to confront his grief and longing in this upside-down world, he discovers an inner strength to face what lies ahead. The film explores love, loss, and personal growth against the backdrop of a turbulent historical Rome.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 7
City of WomenMovie · 1980 · 140m · Comedy, Adventure, FantasySnaporaz, a charming and mysterious man, gets caught up in a strange adventure when he meets an attractive woman on a train. He impulsively follows her into a mysterious forest, expecting something romantic. Instead, he discovers an odd hotel filled with women holding an annual feminist conference.
Snaporaz's arrival disrupts this world, and he quickly finds himself unwelcome among these strong women. The film uses fantasy and humor to examine gender roles and power, questioning traditional ideas and offering a fresh story. As Snaporaz adjusts to this bizarre place, he experiences confusion and eventually understanding, dealing with the results of his choices in this surreal setting.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.9 - 8
Ginger and FredMovie · 1986 · 125mAfter many years apart, Amelia and Pippo reunite to revive their music-hall routine – an imitation of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers – for a guest appearance on a television variety show.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8 - 9
8½Movie · 1963 · 139mFilm director Guido Anselmi, at the height of his success, experiences a complete creative block. Doctors advise him to take a break, so he retreats to a lavish resort. However, his entourage – including his producer, staff, actors, wife, mistress, and family – follow, each desperately wanting him to resume work. Isolated from them, Anselmi becomes lost in memories of past relationships and childhood fantasies.IMDb 8.0TMDB 8.1 - 10
The Voice of the MoonMovie · 1990 · 120m · Adventure, Comedy, FantasyThis film follows Ivo Salvini, recently released from a mental institution, and former prefect Gonnella as they journey through a strange land. They find themselves in a world saturated with commercials, where beauty pageants hold power, rock music is constant, and a mix of religious and pagan beliefs shapes society. The story explores the inner lives of those who hear a different voice – those considered unconventional – offering a look at how people grapple with their own thoughts amidst a world in flux.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.7 - 11
Juliet of the SpiritsMovie · 1965 · 148m · Comedy, Drama, FantasyGiulietta, a woman in her middle years, grows increasingly suspicious of her husband Giorgio as his behavior becomes strange. Her doubts deepen when he unexpectedly holds a seance with friends, which unexpectedly allows Giulietta to communicate with spirits and uncover hidden truths about herself and her past. Initially doubtful, she consults a mystic who reveals the true nature of Giorgio's character, leading Giulietta to face the painful truth of his betrayal. The film is a suspenseful exploration of self-discovery and emotional turmoil as Giulietta struggles to find the truth.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 12
AmarcordMovie · 1973 · 123m · Comedy, DramaIn a sun-drenched Italian coastal town, a world of both charm and chaos unfolds as young Titta grows up with his lively friends. Exploring their surroundings, they meet a colorful cast of local characters with unusual habits, blending humor and heartfelt moments to portray post-war Italy. Titta's complex relationship with his strict father and the loving support of his mother shape his journey to adulthood. The film introduces a variety of people – from Titta’s large family and devoted Fascist supporters to captivating women who make a lasting impact. Unexpectedly, the story includes fantastical elements, adding moments of magic. This coming-of-age story offers a nostalgic yet honest look at life in a small Italian town during a time of significant change.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.9 - 13
La Dolce VitaMovie · 1960 · 176m · Comedy, DramaMarcello, a journalist, questions his identity as he lives in Rome and deals with his relationship. He tries to balance his ambitions for success and art with the demands of love and family, feeling pulled in different directions.
The film shows Marcello's internal struggles as he tries to fit into Rome's high society while searching for something more meaningful than social standing. It explores the difficulty of finding one's purpose and the conflict between ambition and fitting in.
Through Marcello’s story, the film examines identity, self-worth, and the desire for artistic satisfaction, all set against the backdrop of Rome’s scenery and social life. It's an intimate look at a man searching for meaning, prompting viewers to consider their own lives.IMDb 8.0TMDB 8.0 - 14
Love in the CityMovie · 1953 · 115m · Drama, RomanceThe film presents six separate stories set in Rome, exploring various human connections, feelings, and desires. It portrays raw realities like prostitution and the difficult lives of unwed mothers, creating a rich collection of emotionally honest narratives. Each story invites reflection on the complexities of love and desire, and how societal pressures affect these emotions. As the audience experiences these stories, they encounter themes of heartbreak, social expectations, and how love appears in different forms.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.5 - 15
Boccaccio '70Movie · 1962 · 204m · Comedy, RomanceThis anthology film explores love, desire, and societal pressures in 1960s Italy through four connected stories. The first follows two young lovers dealing with workplace politics amidst growing city life. The second tells a whimsical story of an elderly woman haunted by milk advertisements. Another segment shows a trophy wife struggling with her husband's public affairs. Finally, a resident of a small town wins a prize at the local fair, changing their life. These interwoven stories highlight the absurdities, humor, and emotional struggles that come with changing ideas about sex and morality in a rapidly evolving world.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 16
The ClownsMovie · 1970 · 93m · TV Movie, ComedyThe film explores director Federico Fellini's deep fascination with clowns and the circus, inspired by his childhood experience with a traveling show. Fellini and his crew travel across Italy to Paris in search of the last great European clowns. There, their journey intersects with actress Anita Ekberg's quest to buy a panther within the circus world. This personal exploration blends nostalgia and the search for artistic inspiration, set against a vibrant backdrop of memorable characters and dazzling performances.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 17
The White SheikMovie · 1952 · 83m · Comedy, RomanceIn a charming Italian town, newlyweds Wanda and Ivan Cavalli look forward to their honeymoon in Rome. While Ivan prioritizes family and church obligations, Wanda dreams of meeting her idol, "The White Sheik," a celebrity from photo strips. She sets off on a playful search for him, disregarding her husband's plans.
Ivan, disheartened by Wanda’s departure and bound by social duty, becomes immersed in a series of arranged meetings and family events. The film contrasts Wanda’s adventures with Ivan’s adherence to tradition, offering a lighthearted look at two people balancing personal desires with societal pressures in 1970s Italy.
This film humorously explores love, identity, and the contrast between reality and fantasy through the comedic journeys of its engaging leads. As Wanda and Ivan pursue their separate paths, they ultimately realize that their marriage thrives not on conforming to expectations, but on embracing their individual selves.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 18
Nights of CabiriaMovie · 1957 · 110m · DramaRome, 1957. Cabiria, an optimistic woman, is betrayed by her boyfriend Giorgio and left for dead near the Tiber River. Rescued by strangers, she confronts the harsh realities of life with remarkable strength. Determined to find happiness despite cynicism, Cabiria navigates love and loss, learning that appearances can be misleading. The film explores betrayal, resilience, and self-discovery set against the backdrop of late 1950s Rome, examining the complexities of human connection and the pursuit of contentment.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.0 - 19
IntervistaMovie · 1987 · 107m · Drama, ComedyThis film offers a revealing look at the legendary Italian director Federico Fellini, seen through the eyes of a Japanese film crew documenting his life and work. The documentary provides insights into Fellini's creative process and personal life, while also humorously exploring the interactions between him and the visiting crew, who offer a different cultural perspective. Blending biography with fictional elements, the film explores Fellini's artistic journey – his challenges and successes – as he grapples with cinema as both art and personal exploration, all observed by an outsider.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 20
Orchestra RehearsalMovie · 1979 · 72m · Comedy, Drama, MusicA television documentary crew films a routine rehearsal of an orchestra in a historic chapel. The peaceful atmosphere shifts dramatically when a conflict erupts among the musicians, revealing underlying tensions and personal struggles. The film blends music, history, and drama to create a compelling story.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6 - 21
And the Ship Sails OnMovie · 1983 · 128mIn 1914, a cruise ship journeys from Naples to scatter the ashes of the late opera singer Edmea Tetua on her native island of Erimo. The diverse passengers encounter a group of Serbian refugees. Initially, the atmosphere is peaceful and friendly. However, the ship is then attacked by an Austrian warship. The Serbians are compelled onto the Austrian vessel and, naturally, they fight back, resulting in a devastating clash.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 22
Fellini's CasanovaMovie · 1976 · 148m · Drama, HistoryThe film examines the life of Giacomo Casanova, a figure famous for his reputation as a seducer. Known for his many romantic encounters and extravagant lifestyle, Casanova finds a deeper hollowness beneath the surface. Exploring his own desires, he questions who he is, what he wants, and what truly matters. The story follows him through various relationships in 18th-century Venice, each revealing new facets of his personality as he lives in a turbulent world. Casanova faces his own weaknesses, leading to a compelling look at what it means to be human.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 23
Variety LightsMovie · 1950 · 93m · Drama, ComedyChecco Dal Monte, an Italian showman, leads a group of traveling performers who are passionate about the arts, even if they aren't naturally gifted. While performing in a small town, he meets Lily Antonelli, a talented and lively dancer with big aspirations. Impressed by her personality and talent, Checco brings Lily into his troupe.
As they tour, Lily’s energy attracts audiences and improves their performances. However, her popularity creates friction, especially with Melina Amour, Checco's mistress, who feels threatened. Lily remains determined to achieve more in the theater world.
This comedy-drama examines ambition, jealousy, and relationships within a vibrant Italian traveling theater company. It’s a story about the power of dreams and how one woman’s desire for success impacts those around her.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
