Sep 07, 2023

5 Great Films Set in Italy

By

Trtl Guest

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If you need to make an iconic film that will be remembered throughout history then set it in Italy. The country boasts a huge amount of cinematic masterpieces set in all corners of the country but we’ve narrowed it down to five. So sit back, relax and grab the biggest bowl of pasta you can find (when in Rome). 

 

1. The Talented Mr. Ripley

1999

Rotten Tomatoes 85%

Audience Score 80%


With an all-star cast this crime/thriller film spans some of the most gorgeous sights in Italy. When Tom Ridley charms his way into the luxury life, he’ll do anything it takes to stay there. An edge of your seat story that’ll make you question how well you know the ones in your life.

Where was it filmed?
Various locations in Italy including Positano, Naples, Anzio and Venice.

2. Luca

2021

Rotten Tomatoes 91%

Audience Score 85%


If you’re looking for a family-friendly Italian film for movie night, then look no further than Pixar’s Luca. Luca is a young sea monster who discovers he’s able to transform into a human on dry land. Accompanied by his friends, he sets out on different adventures discovering the Italian Riviera. 


Where was it filmed?
Genoa, Cinque Terre and other spots in the Italian Riviera were the inspiration for the fictional town of Portorosso.

3. A Room with a View

1985

Rotten Tomatoes: 100%

Audience Score: 85%


Needing a little romance in your life? Based on the novel by E.M. Forster we follow the story of Lucy Honeychurch, a young English woman who travels Italy with her chaperone. This is a love story that has lasted through time and Helena Bonham Carter is just incredible. 


Where was it filmed?
Various locations in Italy but primarily focusing on Florence.


4. Roman Holiday

1953

Rotten Tomatoes: 95%

Audience Score: 95%


It’s a tale as old as time. A princess gets bored and escapes her castle, only to fall in love with an American reporter trying to get the latest scoop on her. Curl up with your tiara and get swept away by Audrey Hepburn, Gregory Peck and the beauty of Rome 
 
Where was it filmed?
Rome (of course).

 

5. The Godfather

1972

Rotten Tomatoes: 97%

Audience Score: 98%


We couldn’t talk about movies in Italy without including one of the greatest films of all time. In the Godfather, we follow the Corleone family as the patriarch, Vito Corleone, tries to hand his mafia empire down to his youngest son. 


Featuring some of the most iconic lines in cinematic history, this is a must watch for anyone over the age of 15. Grab a couple cannoli and watch the family drama unfold. 

Where was it filmed?
Multiple locations in Sicily but mainly Savoca.