10 Must-Watch Movies & Series To Ignite Your Passion For Italy
Italy, a country known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, has captivated the hearts of travelers for centuries. If you're planning a trip to Italy or simply have an interest in this magnificent destination, immersing yourself in films, documentaries, and series showcasing its beauty can be a fantastic way to prepare for your journey. In this blog post, we've curated a list of must-watch movies, documentaries, and series that will undoubtedly inspire and excite you about your upcoming Italian adventure, or simply scratch that itch you have for the magic, the fantasy, the allure, and the drama of Italia.
"The Truffle Hunters" (2021):
Directed by Michael Dweck and Gregory Kershaw, "The Truffle Hunters" takes you on a captivating journey through the picturesque region of Piemonte. Explore the enchanting forests alongside truffle hunters and their canine companions, delving into the unique world of truffle hunting in Italy. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Piemonte's landscapes and gain a deeper appreciation for its culinary treasures.
"La Grande Bellezza" (2013):
Set in the eternal city of Rome, "Grande Bellezza" or The Great Beauty in English, directed by legendary Italian director, Paolo Sorrentino, is a visual masterpiece that encapsulates the grandeur and charm of the Italian capital. Follow Jep Gambardella, a disillusioned writer, as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery through the decadent world of Rome's elite. Even if the story itself is one of over the top drama and fantasy, this visually stunning film captures the essence of the city, showcasing its iconic landmarks, vibrant nightlife, stunning beauty, and cultural heritage. Sorrentino's other films, as well as his series, The Young Pope, are also worth watching as they all beautifully showcase different aspects of Italy.
"Cinema Paradiso" (1988):
Giuseppe Tornatore's "Cinema Paradiso" is a heartfelt tribute to the power of cinema and the nostalgia of small-town Italy. Set in a Sicilian village, the film follows a young boy, Salvatore, as he develops a deep passion for movies under the guidance of the local projectionist. Through the lens of film, you'll be transported to the idyllic streets of Sicily and experience the warmth and magic of Italian cinema.
"Under the Tuscan Sun" (2003):
Based on the bestselling memoir by Frances Mayes, "Under the Tuscan Sun" tells the story of a recently divorced writer who impulsively buys a villa in the breathtaking region of Tuscany. Join her as she navigates the challenges of renovating the property and discovers the beauty of the Tuscan countryside, its cuisine, and the warmth of its people. This heartwarming film will undoubtedly ignite your wanderlust for Tuscany.
"Call Me by Your Name" (2017):
Set in the sun-drenched landscapes of Lombardy, "Call Me by Your Name" directed by Luca Guadagnino is a poignant coming-of-age story that captures the essence of summer in Northern Italy. Follow Elio and Oliver as they embark on a passionate love affair amidst the beauty of their surroundings. With its mesmerizing cinematography, the film beautifully showcases the idyllic countryside of Lombardy, from its orchards to its grand villas, to its serene lakes.
"Roman Holiday" (1953):
Transport yourself to the iconic streets of Rome with this classic film starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. "Roman Holiday" tells the story of a princess who escapes her royal duties and experiences an unforgettable adventure in the Eternal City. Explore Rome's iconic landmarks, such as the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps, and let the film enchant you with its timeless charm.
"I Am Love" (2009):
Directed by Luca Guadagnino, "I Am Love" is a visually stunning film set in Milan, which tells the story of a wealthy family grappling with love, passion, and tradition. Immerse yourself in the glamorous world of high society in Milan as the film showcases the city's architectural marvels, fashionable streets, and sumptuous cuisine. The beauty of Milan becomes a character of its own, adding depth to the compelling narrative.
"La Dolce Vita" (1960):
Directed by Federico Fellini, "La Dolce Vita" is a classic Italian film that captures the essence of the glamorous and hedonistic lifestyle in 1960s Rome. Through the eyes of a journalist, the film explores the decadence, ennui, and pursuit of pleasure in the city's high society. Dive into the iconic scenes set against Rome's landmarks and experience the allure of the "sweet life" that has made this film an enduring cultural masterpiece.
"Master of None" (2017) Season 2, Episode 1 and 2:
Created by Aziz Ansari and Alan Yang, "Master of None" is a critically acclaimed comedy-drama series that explores various aspects of modern life. In Season 2 of the show, the first 2 episodes titled "The Thief" and "Le Nozze," take viewers on a culinary and romantic adventure in the beautiful city of Modena, located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Follow the protagonist, Dev (played by Aziz Ansari), as he explores the local cuisine, falls in love, and experiences the vibrant culture of Emilia Romagna.
"The White Lotus" (2022) Season 2 :
Set in the stunning cliffside city of Taormina in Eastern Sicily, the second season of this acclaimed HBO series embraces the essence of Southern Italy in a big way. Follow the show's cast of wealthy tourists during their stay at the White Lotus Resort, which in real life is actually the beautiful Four Seasons San Domenico Palace resort. By the end of this series, you will be dying to book a plane ticket to Sicily to experience the wonders of Italy's biggest island. Hopefully without the murder plot though!
Indulge in these captivating movies and documentaries to ignite your passion for Italy and fuel your excitement for an upcoming trip. From the lush landscapes of Piemonte in "The Truffle Hunters" to the eternal beauty of Rome in "Grande Bellezza," each piece of cinema on this list offers a unique glimpse into the diverse allure of Italy. Let these visual masterpieces transport you to the heart of Italy from your living room, and let Isarti Travel transport you to Italy itself so you can experience the wonders of this country.
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