The Road

The Road, 1954
(La strada)
dir. Federico Fellini
Starring: Anthony Quinn, Giulietta Masina, Richard Basehart
4.1/5

Despite loving film, I have to admit, some of the more prominent names in the world of cinema intimidate me a bit. In my film classes, we often talked about Ingmar Bergman, Jean-Luc Godard, and Federico Fellini. I have tried watching several Bergman films, but grew too confused. Godard has started to bore me. I feared my first encounter with a Fellini film was already doomed.

I chose The Road as my first Fellini. It is centered around Gelsomina, a woman who is sold to Zampano to take his dead wife’s – her sister’s – place by his side. Zampano works as a traveling showman, and eventually incorporates Gelsomina in his act as the announcer, as he uses his strength to break chains. Despite her help, Zampano cheats on her, is mean to her, and beats her. In time, the two join a traveling circus, where they meet Il Matto, a tightrope walker and musician. He and Gelsomina get along from the start, but he and Zampano do not. This bittersweet triangle leads to unexpected tragedies as time goes on.

I was so happy I understood this film. I laughed! I cried! I wasn’t lost! I felt for the characters! I followed the story! I’m not hopeless with renowned film!

Favorite thing: Giulietta Masina is easily the cutest actress I have ever seen.

Worst thing: You really connect with Gelsomina, which makes the film twice as heartbreaking.

Should you watch it? YES!!!