The Night of the Shooting Stars, also known as La Notte di San Lorenzo, is a 1982 Italian film directed by Paolo and Vittorio Taviani. The film is set in Tuscany, Italy, during the summer of 1944, towards the end of World War II.
The film follows the story of a group of villagers who flee their town called San Martino after hearing rumors that the Nazis plan to blow it up. The villagers, including men, women, children, and elderly people, set out on foot, hoping to find safety in the nearby hills.
During their journey, the group encounters various challenges and obstacles, including enemy soldiers, friendly partisans, and mistrust among themselves. But despite the hardships they face, the group unites to survive and find hope in the midst of war.
Throughout the film, the night of San Lorenzo, or the night of the shooting stars, serves as a symbol of hope and dreams coming true. The villagers believe that if they make a wish on a shooting star, it will come true. As the night falls, the villagers gather to observe the shooting stars and make their wishes.
The Night of the Shooting Stars is a poignant and moving portrayal of the hardships and struggles of war, but also the resilience and strength of the human spirit. The film features stunning cinematography, a powerful score, and excellent performances by the cast, including Omero Antonutti, Margarita Lozano, Claudio Bigagli, and more. It is considered one of the masterpieces of Italian cinema and has won numerous awards and accolades.