To mark the nomination of Rome to Expo 2030 the Italian Cultural Institute in London has curated the series “Roman nights”, showcasing some of the best films shot in Rome. While most of the choices will belong to the Neorealismo – a movement in Italian cinema characterised by stories set among the poor and the working class, filmed on location and often with non-professional actors – Rome will also feature in all its glory in our choice of more recent cult and Oscars winning films.
We are pleased to pay homage to Maestro Dario Argento with a screening of The Bird with the Crystal Plumage at the end of his retrospective at the National Film Theatre.
Thursday 1 June 6.30pm
The Bird with the Cristal Plumage
Director: Dario Argento
Writer: Dario Argento e Frederic Brown
Soundtrack: Ennio Monricone
Cast: Tony Musante, Suzy Kendall and Enrico Maria Salerno
Horror/Thriller /1970/1h36’ /b/w
In Italian with English Subtitles.
Combining a deadly thriller plot with stylized violence, The Bird with the Crystal Plumage marks an impressive horror debut for Dario Argento. The film has been credited with popularizing giallo, an Italian genre of thriller developed in the 1960s.
An American writer is living in Rome with his girlfriend. While visiting an art gallery, Sam witnesses an unsuccessful murder attempt by a mysterious figure. As the assailant is believed to be an infamous serial killer, Sam quickly becomes a key witness in the ongoing police investigation.
The film was an international commercial and critical success.
Globo d’oro 1970 – Best first film
Introduction and post screening discussion with Nick Walker
Nick Walker has worked in the film industry, wrote film articles for The Guardian, is a film lecturer, programmer and host of film salon events in London and Rochester. Nick has a Master’s Degree in Film Culture.