The Non-Professional Actor: Italian Neorealist Cinema and Beyond

Italian post-war cinema (1945-54) was a period of regeneration that used non-professional actors, particularly children, to bring ideas of the ordinary into the discourse of stars as extraordinary. This period initiated the boom in cinemagoing that made cinema an important vector of national and gender identity. The book discusses the casting, performance, and labor of non-professional actors, their cultural and economic value to cinema, and how their use brought ideas of the ordinary into the discourse of stars as extraordinary.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 14 December 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Italian post-war cinema, a vibrant era that emerged from the ashes of World War II (1945-54), has left an indelible mark on the world of film. This period witnessed a remarkable resurgence of Italian cinema, marked by a profound exploration of acting, stardom, and performance. One of the most notable aspects of this era was the prominent role of non-professional actors, who played a significant part in shaping the narrative and aesthetic of neorealist filmmaking.

In this comprehensive critical overview, we will delve into the intricate world of post-war Italian cinema, focusing specifically on the role of non-professional actors. We will explore the casting, performance, and labor of these actors, particularly children, and examine their cultural and economic value to the cinema. Moreover, we will examine how their use brought ideas of the ordinary into the discourse of stars as extraordinary.

One of the most significant contributions of post-war Italian cinema was its embrace of realism. Neorealist filmmakers sought to portray the realities of post-war Italy, including the struggles of ordinary people and the social and economic changes that were taking place. Non-professional actors, who often came from marginalized backgrounds, were perfectly suited to these roles, as they brought a sense of authenticity and relatability to the characters they portrayed.

One of the most iconic films of this era is Bicycle Thieves (De Sica, 1948), a masterpiece that tells the story of a poor family in post-war Rome. The film's lead actors, non-professional actors who were recruited from the streets, gave remarkably powerful and nuanced performances that captured the essence of the characters and the harsh realities of their lives. Their performances were so convincing that they became a symbol of the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Another notable film that exemplifies the power of non-professional actors is Paisan (Rossellini, 1946). This film, which tells the story of a peasant family in post-war Italy, features a cast of non-professional actors who bring a sense of authenticity and realism to the characters. Their performances are so powerful that they leave a lasting impression on the viewer, and the film has become a classic of Italian cinema.

In addition to their contributions to realism, non-professional actors also played a crucial role in shaping the discourse of acting, performance, and stardom. During this period, there was a growing concern about the 'crisis of acting' that was linked to the rise of non-professionals and the sudden fame that beauty contests were bringing to women like Sophia Loren. Critics and press discourses often focused on the perceived decline in the quality of acting and the perceived lack of depth and complexity in the performances of non-professional actors.

However, it is important to note that these criticisms were not entirely fair. Non-professional actors brought a unique perspective to the screen, and their performances were often characterized by a raw energy and authenticity that was lacking in the more polished and professional performances of Hollywood stars. They were able to convey a sense of human vulnerability and emotion that was often overlooked by mainstream cinema.

Despite the challenges that non-professional actors faced, their contributions to post-war Italian cinema were invaluable. They helped to establish Italian cinema as a major force in world cinema, and their performances have left a lasting impact on the film industry. The use of non-professional actors not only brought a sense of realism to the screen but also challenged traditional notions of acting and performance.

In conclusion, post-war Italian cinema was a period of remarkable creativity and innovation, and the role of non-professional actors was a significant part of this movement. Their contributions to realism, authenticity, and the discourse of acting, performance, and stardom have left a lasting legacy on the film industry. As we continue to explore the rich tapestry of Italian cinema, we must recognize the importance of these actors and their contributions to the shaping of cinematic history.

Weight: 528g
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501394355