Nights of Cabiria is a 1957 Italian drama film directed by Federico Fellini and starring Giulietta Masina as the titular character, Cabiria. Following the opening scene of Cabiria being robbed and left to drown by her boyfriend, the film follows her as she navigates the gritty streets of Rome in search of love, happiness, and a sense of belonging in a world that is often cruel and unkind.
Cabiria works as a prostitute, and her encounters with various men – including a famous actor who takes her to his villa and later rejects her, and a kindly accountant who offers her a glimpse of a better life – ultimately lead her to question the value and meaning of her own existence. Along the way, she forms a deep, touching bond with a charming and sentimental street performer, Oscar, who becomes her confidant and greatest ally in her quest for love and happiness.
The film is known for its striking visual style and whimsical, dream-like sequences, as well as the incredible performance by Masina, who portrays Cabiria with tremendous warmth, humor, and pathos. Despite the hardships and disappointments she faces, Cabiria remains resilient and determined to find joy in life, no matter how fleeting it may be.
Nights of Cabiria is a poignant and elegant masterpiece of Italian cinema, exploring themes of hope, love, and the often-painful realities of human connection in a world that can be both beautiful and brutal.
