The Nights of Cabiria
SHADOWS 
MUST-SEE
The Nights of Cabiria
SHADOWS MUST-SEE
Cabiria (Masina) doesn't trust her luck when she's whisked away by a rich and famous movie star...
She stars as Cabiria, a prostitute in Rome who doesn't let the realities of life interfere with her optimism. From the startling opening scene, she moves through society night by night knowing that eventually she will find what she needs to improve her life. She moves from a glamorous actor (Nazzari) to a lonely charity worker, from religious fervour to hypnosis and magic, from the kind monk who talks about the grace of God to her loyal best friend Wanda (Marzi) ... and eventually to the handsome Oscar (Perier), who sweeps her off her feet. Cabiria is always looking for the silver lining--and when everything seems to be going right, she can hardly believe her luck.
The film works on so many levels that it quickly gets under our skin and stays there. Fellini is on top form; vivid "colours" dance across each black and white frame with a quirky energy that cuts through to the earthy comedy and tragedy of real life. But this isn't just an art film--its universal themes touch a raw nerve. We vividly feel Cabiria's desire to find meaning in life ... to be loved and respected even if it means risking everything. Astounding and essential.
[PG--adult themes] 26.Jul.99
UK reissue 23.Jul.99
Winner: Best Actress Giulietta Masina (Cannes 57); Best Foreign Film (Oscar 58).
