Europe '51

About Europe '51

Released in 1952, "Europe '51" is an Italian neorealist drama film directed by Roberto Rossellini. The narrative revolves around a high-society woman named Irene Girard who experiences a personal tragedy, which causes her to abandon her frivolous lifestyle and devote herself to helping the impoverished inhabitants of her city.

Making / Production

The movie was directed by Roberto Rossellini who co-wrote it with collaborators Sandro De Feo, Mario Pannunzio, Ivo Perilli, and Brunello Rondi. The societal issues and poverty depicted in the film were greatly influenced by Italy's social climate during the post-war period.

Actors

• Ingrid Bergman as Irene Girard - A haunting and transformative display of a high society woman turned social worker.
• Alexander Knox as George Girard - Irene's husband, suitably played as a man struggling to understand his wife's transformation.
• Ettore Giannini as Andrea Casatti - Delivered an impactful performance as an unemployed leftist.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was in fact a collaboration between director Rossellini and actress Ingrid Bergman, who were married at the time.
• It was initially poorly received in Italy and was banned in several countries due to its stark depiction of poverty.

Quotes

• "All a poor person has are dreams." - Irene Girard
• "The salvation of one person equals the salvation of humanity." - Andrea Casatti

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's score, composed by Renzo Rossellini, Roberto Rossellini's brother, is remembered for its exquisite simplicity and poignant themes.