Senso (1954)

About Senso

"Senso" is a 1954 Italian film directed by Luchino Visconti. Set against the turbulent backdrop of 19th-century Italian unification struggles, it tells the tragic story of a doomed love affair between an Italian countess and an Austrian officer. As the war intensifies, so too does the countess's obsession, leading to dark consequences. The film is celebrated for its deeply emotional narrative, lush visuals, and exceptional performances.

Making / Production

The movie was directed by Luchino Visconti with Suso Cecchi d'Amico and Tennessee Williams assisting in the screenplay. The film was shot entirely in Technicolor, a rare approach for Italian cinema at the time, which gave the movie its characteristic lush and vivid appearance.

Actors

• Alida Valli as Countess Livia Serpieri. Valli delivered a powerful depiction of a woman succumbing to a self-destructive passion.
• Farley Granger as Lt. Franz Mahler. Granger's performance conveyed the selfishness and narcissism of an officer using love for his own gains.
• Massimo Girotti as Roberto Ussoni. Girotti portrayed the patriot driven by his conviction to the Italian cause.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was censored upon its original release in Italy due to its critique of Italian nationalism during the Risorgimento, and only later was shown in its full version.
• It was based on the novella "Senso" by Camillo Boito.
• Despite the director's wish to cast Marlon Brando and Ingrid Bergman, the roles eventually went to Alida Valli and Farley Granger.

Quotes

• "I see in you the heroism of a true patriot. Even heroes can stumble."
• "I despised you even as I kissed you!"

Music / Soundtrack

• The film's score was composed by the Nino Rota and renowned conductor Antonino Votto.
• The soundtrack was filled with works by Giuseppe Verdi, reflecting the film's historical period.