Anna Magnani... in a Day

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Anna Magnani has been called a ‘she-wolf’, a ‘volcano’ and an ‘anti-fascist feminist’. Known for her portrayals of fierce southern Italian women, Magnani was one of the most respected divas of the 20th century. She stars in quintessential Italian films about Rome – Rome, Open City (Roberto Rossellini, 1945), Mamma Roma (Pierpaolo Pasolini, 1962), and Roma (Federico Fellini, 1972). Meanwhile, her transatlantic stardom was secured when she became the muse for U.S. playwright Tennessee Williams, who wrote several films just for her to act in. Magnani’s role in one of these, The Rose Tattoo (1955), won her the Oscar for Best Actress, making her the first Italian ever to win an Academy Award.

This special programme will explore Magnani’s career through the European and Hollywood films in which she took the leading role. These include Mamma Roma, The Rose Tattoo and two surprise films that will be revealed on the day! Such films, and Magnani’s roles in them, teach us not only about Italian film history, but feminism and female stardom, perceptions of Mediterranean women abroad, and the lively international network of directors, producers and stars that linked the U.S. and Europe after the Second World War.

Presented by Rachel Johnson as part of our new Hyde Park Film School strand, this day long programme will consist of:

• 10.30am - Introductions and ‘Origins of Acting’
• 11.30am - Surprise feature film
• 1.15pm - Brief discussion exercise
• 1.30pm - Lunch
• 2.15pm - ‘Acting the Diva’ talk and film introduction
• 2.40pm - The Rose Tattoo (1955)
• 4.40pm - Break
• 4.50pm - Surprise short film
• 5.10pm - Wrap-up exercise
• 5.30pm - Evening break
• 6.40pm - Mamma Roma (1962)

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Tickets are £35 and include entry to all talks and films – including our public screening of Mamma Roma – as well as hot drinks served throughout the day.

While the talks are interactive, you’ll be invited to participate at a level that works for you: join friendly group discussions, or just sit back and listen.

This is a limited capacity event so please book your tickets in advance.

Rachel Johnson is a Lecturer in Film Studies at the University of Leeds. Completing their PhD in Italian cinema in 2019, they research film festivals, cinephilia and diversity. Rachel regularly delivers film talks with organizations such as Opera North, Leeds International Film Festival and the Hyde Park Picture House.

Please note membership discounts do not apply for Hyde Park Film School... in a Day.