This 1962 Pasolini classic, not released in the United States until 1995, is the story of a disenfranchised prostitute and her struggle to bring up her son in Rome. Mamma Roma stars Anna Magnani as a towering diva who lives the life of the streets. The decadent life of 60s Rome pulls her son toward crime and eventual destruction at the hands of the violent fascist police force. Magnani's presence in this film is totally magnificent, and she regards it as "the most important role I ever played." 35mm
1962, b&w, 1 hour 50 minutes, Italy