Programme:

January 23rd, 6 PM, Boole 1

Il Gattopardo (The Leopard, 1963) – 185 min

Luchino Visconti

February 13th, 6 PM, Boole 1

Film d'amore e d'anarchia (Love and Anarchy, 1973) – 120 min

Lina Wertmüller

March 5th, 6 PM, Boole 1

Brutti, sporchi e cattivi (Ugly, Dirty and Bad, 1976) – 115 min

Ettore Scola

April 2nd, 6 PM, Boole 1

Lazzaro Felice (Happy as Lazzaro, 2018) – 125 min

Alice Rohrwacher 

Doors open at 6pm, films start at 6.30pm. 

Running through semester 2, the programme offers a deep dive into the lives and representations of Italian peasants as depicted by some of Italy's most acclaimed directors. Through the films, we will search into the background of great narrative and events to look at how the 'contadini' lived, resisted everyday oppression, and survived major historical shifts of the 20th century. 

Looking at a present in which peasants seem to have almost vanished from Italy's everyday life, the programme wonders: 'Dove sono andati?' Where have they gone? To answer this question, the monthly screenings will dive into the issue of 'chi sono i contadini?' who are the peasants?, bringing us face to face with the socio-economic changes that affected 20th century Italy and its migration waves, turning a country of peasants into the diverse and complex society it is today. 

We are excited to begin the series with the screening of "Il Gattopardo" (1963) by Luchino Visconti on Thursday  January 23rd at 6.30 PM. This Palme d'Or-winning masterpiece is a cornerstone of Italian cinema, renowned for its breath-taking cinematography and insightful portrayal of the Risorgimento period. We invite you to cozy up with us on a winter evening and warm up in front of Visconti's mesmerising portrayal of Sicilian aristocracy's life, culture, and dinner parties!

All films are free, screened in Italian, with English subtitles. Cinephiles, all levels Italian learners, and anyone eager to explore the history of 20th-century Italy, warmly welcome.

After each screening, there will be snacks and an opportunity to discuss the films and their themes. Join any time, and come chat about peasantry.

We look forward to seeing you there!