In cinema, the locations depicted often play a significant role, acting as a silent character, contributing to the narrative, and affecting how the story unfolds. This relationship between film and place is particularly evident in Italy, a country that offers an extensive range of landscapes and cityscapes, each rich in cultural and historical significance. The recurring representation of Italy in film has allowed viewers worldwide to gain insights into its varied landscapes, cultural heritage, and architectural aesthetics.
The geographical diversity of Italy, from mountainous regions and coastal areas to agricultural lands and urban cities, has been extensively utilised in films. These various settings have been incorporated into narratives, enabling filmmakers to create diverse atmospheres, portray different lifestyles, and develop unique characters.
Following a list of several iconic Italian locations featured in films. This includes Rome’s historical cityscape, Venice’s distinctive canals, the bucolic countryside of Tuscany, and the ancient city of Matera. Each location has been depicted in its own unique way, contributing to a comprehensive and diverse representation of Italy in cinema.
Rome
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Rome, a city layered with history and culture, has often found its way into the cinematic world. Federico Fellini‘s “La dolce vita” (1960) leverages the vivacious spirit of Rome. The film captures the frenetic nightlife and social whirl of Rome’s Via Veneto, a boulevard famous in the 1950s as a hotspot for celebrities and paparazzi. This movie throws light on the “sweet life” of the era, narrating a journalist’s journey through the highs and lows of the glamorous world. The iconic Trevi Fountain scene where Anita Ekberg bathes in the fountain at dawn is imprinted in the annals of film history.
In stark contrast to Fellini’s portrayal, “Roman holidays” (1953), directed by William Wyler positions Rome as an enchanting backdrop for a romantic escapade. Audrey Hepburn, in her breakout role, plays a princess who explores Rome incognito on a Vespa scooter with a journalist, played by Gregory Peck. The film is remembered for some unforgettable scenes shot at popular Roman landmarks such as the Spanish Steps and the Mouth of Truth.
Ron Howard‘s “Angels & Demons” (2009) takes a different route, masterfully interweaving the city’s historical and religious landmarks into a thrilling, symbol-laden narrative. It’s notable that due to restrictions imposed by the Vatican on filming within sacred sites, the production team had to recreate interiors of renowned locations such as the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s, the Pantheon, Castel Sant’Angelo, Santa Maria del Popolo, and Santa Maria della Vittoria. These were all constructed in painstaking detail on sets in Hollywood.
Venice
Venice, with its labyrinthine canals and distinct architecture, is a captivating setting for cinematic narratives. Martin Campbell‘s “Casino Royale” (2006) frames the city as a location for high-stakes espionage, utilising its grandeur for dramatic sequences. Notably, “Casino Royale” was the first James Bond film to receive permission to film in Venice’s iconic St. Mark’s Square, a landmark that beautifully underscores the film’s high-stakes plot.
Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck‘s “The Tourist” (2010) reveals a romantic side of Venice, employing its charming scenery to craft an intriguing tale of mistaken identity. The filming of “The Tourist” actually boosted local tourism, particularly the Danieli Hotel, where Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie’s characters stay in the film. Additionally, the famous Rialto Market, known for its vibrant and fresh seafood, features prominently in the movie, enhancing the authentic Venetian vibe.
Steven Spielberg‘s “Indiana Jones and the last crusade” (1989) incorporates Venice’s historical facets into an adventure-filled storyline, showcasing its compelling fusion of the past and present. One of the film’s most memorable scenes, set in Venice, involves a thrilling boat chase through the city’s narrow canals. Interestingly, due to strict restrictions on speed within Venice’s canals, the chase scene was filmed at a slow pace and later sped up in post-production to appear more exciting and high-speed. The movie also incorporated the city’s historic sites such as the Church of San Barnaba, which, in the film, served as the fictitious library housing a vital clue to the film’s central quest.
Florence
Florence, renowned as the birthplace of the Renaissance, has been used effectively in cinema to augment storytelling. In Ron Howard‘s 2016 film, “Inferno“, the city’s abundant wealth of art and historical landmarks are cleverly woven into a complex tapestry of intrigue, mystery, and codes. Notable landmarks such as the Uffizi Gallery, Boboli Gardens, and the imposing Palazzo Vecchio are used as more than mere scenic backgrounds; they become integral to the narrative’s puzzle, each holding clues to a deadly pathogen’s location. In fact, the film’s crew faced the monumental task of filming in the heart of the bustling city without disturbing its day-to-day life, a challenge that they met with the use of drone cameras and early morning shoots.
Ridley Scott‘s “Hannibal” (2001) utilizes the city’s sophisticated ambiance as a backdrop for its dark narrative. The city’s beautiful yet haunting streets, particularly around the Ponte Vecchio and the Palazzo Capponi, accentuated the eerie undertones of the film. Notably, Scott’s team had to navigate the delicate task of bringing a horror-thriller plot to the otherwise serene streets of Florence, which added an extra layer of complexity to the film production.
On the other end of the spectrum, James Ivory‘s 1985 film, “A Room with a View“, brings to light the romantic aspects of Florence. The city’s picturesque landscapes, its sun-drenched piazzas, and architectural beauty, particularly the stunning view from the Piazzale Michelangelo, serve as an enchanting frame for a classic love story. Ivory’s crew was said to have fallen in love with the city themselves, spending many off-hours exploring the narrow cobbled streets and savoring the local cuisine, lending an authentic affection to the film’s portrayal of Florence.
Amalfi coast
The Amalfi Coast, located in southwestern Italy, is a mesmerizing stretch of coastline renowned for its stunning cliffs, picturesque towns, and azure waters. This breathtaking destination has served as a captivating backdrop for numerous films, including “Under the Tuscan Sun” (2003) directed by Audrey Wells. While the film’s narrative primarily unfolds in the sun-drenched landscapes of Tuscany, there is a notable detour to the enchanting seaside village of Positano, a highlight of the Amalfi Coast. The director, Audrey Wells, was reputed for her keen eye for locations, with Positano becoming a character in itself, narrating a story of beauty and tranquility. Positano’s pebbled beaches, labyrinthine streets, and quaint, family-owned restaurants, along with the iconic sight of the dome of the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta, make it an unforgettable locale that stirs the imagination.
Similarly, the romantic comedy-drama “Only You” (1994) directed by Norman Jewison, also captures the allure of Positano, infusing the film with the region’s irresistible charm. Filming in Positano offered the unique chance to infuse the movie with the region’s distinctive charm and intoxicating tranquility. The film’s stars Marisa Tomei and Robert Downey Jr. were reportedly awestruck by the location’s beauty, making filming a pleasant experience.
“A Good Woman,” (2004) by Mike Barker and based on an Oscar Wilde play, features captivating scenes shot in Amalfi and Ravello, further showcasing the coast’s timeless allure. Filming took place in a variety of stunning locales, including Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, known for its beautiful gardens and exquisite views of the coast. Scenes in Amalfi reveal the town’s medieval architecture, its famous cathedral, and bustling piazzas. Barker, an English director who appreciated the nuanced beauty of the Amalfi Coast, masterfully used the coast’s enchanting settings to enhance the narrative’s dramatic tension. The cast, including stalwarts like Helen Hunt and Scarlett Johansson, was reportedly enchanted by the locations, with Johansson even spending some of her free time exploring the picturesque towns.
Lake Como
Lake Como, nestled in Northern Italy, offers a scenic panorama that has served as an idyllic setting for various blockbuster films. The romantic escapades of Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala in “Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones” (2002) were brought to life amidst the charming Villa del Balbianello, overlooking Lake Como.
Director Steven Soderbergh chose another magnificent villa by the lake, Villa Erba, as a key location for “Ocean’s Twelve” (2004). This grand neoclassical villa, with its beautiful landscaped gardens, exudes a regal charm that served as the perfect backdrop for the film’s complex and intriguing heist storyline. Villa Erba was the childhood home of the late Italian film director Luchino Visconti, whose works have significantly influenced global cinema.
The enchanting landscape perfectly complemented the 1920s period setting in “A Month by the Lake” (1995) by John Irvin. Lake Como’s breathtaking beauty undeniably adds a magical touch to these cinematic narratives.
Sicily
Sicily, a land marked by its rich history and distinct culture, has often been the cinematic choice for compelling narratives. Francis Ford Coppola‘s “The Godfather” (1972) integrates Sicily’s traditional values and volatile history into its powerful mafia narrative. “The Godfather” utilizes Sicily’s traditional values and its turbulent past to create a profound mafia narrative that still resonates with audiences today. Coppola shot crucial scenes in authentic Sicilian locations, including the picturesque towns of Forza D’Agro and Savoca. In fact, Bar Vitelli in Savoca, where Michael Corleone asks Apollonia’s father for her hand in marriage, is a real location that remains a popular tourist attraction.
Giuseppe Tornatore‘s “Cinema Paradiso” (1988) employs Sicily’s rustic charm to reminisce about the golden age of cinema in a small-town setting. Shot primarily in Bagheria, Tornatore’s hometown, and Palazzo Adriano, this film provides an intimate view into the life of a small Sicilian community while also offering a nostalgic journey through the golden age of cinema. The film’s authentic setting and the director’s personal ties to the location enhance the connection between the story, the characters, and the audience.
The same director’s “Malèna” (2000) showcases Sicily as a backdrop for a poignant story of beauty, desire, and prejudice. Set in the scenic town of Castelcuto, a fictionalization of Castelbuono and other locations around Sicily, the film presents a deeply affecting narrative of beauty, desire, and prejudice. The film is known for its stunning cinematography, with the landscapes and architecture of Sicily playing as much a role in the story as the characters themselves.
Tuscany
Tuscany, known for its idyllic landscapes and architectural beauty, provides a rich setting for cinematic stories. Ridley Scott‘s “Gladiator” (2000) captures Tuscany’s countryside as the symbol of the protagonist’s lost past and his longing for home.
“Letters to Juliet” (2010) incorporates the lush Tuscan scenery into a contemporary narrative of romance and self-discovery. The film was mainly shot in Verona and Siena, with the historic city of Siena serving as a key location. It presented the city’s world-famous Piazza del Campo, the site of the historic Palio horse race, and Siena Cathedral, showcasing the city’s fascinating blend of Medieval and Renaissance architecture.
Bernardo Bertolucci , a native of the region, masterfully employed the Tuscan landscape in his coming-of-age film, “Stealing Beauty” (1996)The film was shot in his family’s villa, located near the charming town of Arezzo in Eastern Tuscany. This personal connection to the region added an authentic touch to the movie, with Bertolucci using the Tuscan landscape’s evocative beauty to delve into themes of youth and innocence.
Lastly, “The English Patient” (1996), directed by Anthony Minghella, exploits the arid expanses and architectural splendors of Tuscany to underscore the narrative’s complex themes of love, loss, and memory. Filmed in part at the Monastery of Sant’Anna in Camprena, near Pienza, the film highlights the region’s unique blend of natural and architectural beauty. Interestingly, the monastery was later converted into a hotel, gaining popularity among tourists after the film’s release.
Milan
Milan, Italy’s fashion and finance hub, serves as the elegant backdrop for three illustrious films.In the gripping thriller “The International” directed by Tom Tykwer in 2009, Milan’s urban landscape assumes a pivotal role, infusing the narrative with an air of suspense and intrigue. Amidst the city’s bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, the plot unravels to reveal a web of financial conspiracy that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
“I Am Love,”directed by Luca Guadagnino, also released in 2009, delves into Milan’s grandeur and opulence, which find their perfect reflection in the story of a high-society family. The film elegantly portrays the city as a haven of wealth and sophistication, with its lavish mansions, extravagant parties, and the vibrant pulse of the fashion world. Milan becomes a character in itself, exuding a sense of grandeur and luxury that underscores the intricate tale of passion and self-discovery.
Contrasting the glamour and affluence, “Rocco and His Brothers,” directed by Luchino Visconti in 1960, sheds light on post-war Milan through the lens of a humble, rural family making their way to the city. This poignant portrayal juxtaposes the grittier side of Milan’s history with the struggles and hardships faced by the migrant family. The film captures the stark reality of a rapidly evolving city, as they navigate their way through the crowded tenements and industrial landscapes, seeking a better life while facing the harsh realities of urban life.
Matera
Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Italy, has been a captivating filming location for several noteworthy movies. Pier Paolo Pasolini chose its stark, ancient backdrop for his film “The Gospel According to St. Matthew” (1964), creating an authentic biblical atmosphere. The city’s ancient architecture, characterized by its unique Sassi (stone houses carved into the rock), provided an ideal setting to recreate the biblical era authentically, mimicking the desolate landscapes of the Holy Land in the first century. Pasolini’s choice established Matera as a sought-after location for historical and biblical dramas.
Similarly, Mel Gibson‘s “The Passion of the Christ” (2004) used Matera’s landscape to dramatically portray Jerusalem’s terrain. This movie marked a resurgence in Matera’s popularity as a filming location and brought the city to international recognition. The passion project, filled with breathtaking sequences, mirrored the harsh realities of biblical times. Mel Gibson’s crew members spent several months in Matera, immersing themselves in the local culture, which significantly influenced the film’s aesthetics.
In the subsequent years, Matera continued to charm the hearts of filmmakers, transcending the realm of biblical epics and moving into different genres. Patty Jenkins‘ “Wonder Woman” (2017) used the city’s historic charm to enhance the film’s mythological aura. The decision to shoot there was based on creating a parallel between the ancient, timeless city and the eternal, mythical Amazonian home of the heroine. The production involved many local residents who played extras, thus providing a sense of community involvement and economic stimulus for the area.
Cary Joji Fukunaga‘s “No Time to Die” (2021), the James Bond movie, also filmed some of its most thrilling sequences in Matera, underscoring the city’s versatility as a filming location. The film utilized the city’s narrow alleys and picturesque views to create a classic European feel for its action-packed sequences, adding a new layer to Bond’s cosmopolitan character. This decision made the film a part of Matera’s legacy and continued tradition of hosting large-scale international film productions.
Turin
Turin, known for its blend of historical and contemporary architecture, has found itself the setting of a range of films. One of the notable films that placed Turin on the cinematic map is Peter Collinson‘s “The Italian Job” (1969). This cult classic is renowned for its audacious heist plot, centered around stealing gold from a secure vault in Turin. The film is a love letter to Turin’s urban layout and the Italian lifestyle, featuring the city’s famous landmarks, such as the Gran Madre di Dio church and the Palazzo Carignano.
Dario Argento‘s “Deep Red” (1975) leverages the city’s atmospheric and architectural elements to create suspense in his renowned horror-thriller. Argento, a master of the Italian giallo genre, uses the atmospheric and architectural elements of Turin to instill a sense of suspense and dread in this renowned horror-thriller. Locations such as Piazza Carlo Felice and the Art Nouveau-style Casa La Fleur served as haunting backdrops that played into Argento’s stylistic storytelling. Argento’s choice of Turin was actually quite deliberate. According to him, he chose Turin because of its magical history and its strong association with black magic and occultism, which he believed would add an eerie layer to the film.
Topics: Italian Movie Locations, Famous Films Shot in Italy, Rome in the Movies, Venice Film Locations, Turin’s Cinematic Landscape, Amalfi Coast on the Silver Screen, Sicilian Film Sets, Italian Culture in Cinema, Travelling Italy Through Movies, Landmarks in Italy Featured in Films.
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