Nanni Moretti is an Italian filmmaker, writer, and actor who has been making films for over four decades. He is known for his insightful and often humorous explorations of personal and political issues. Here are some of his best films and what makes them worth watching:

“Dear Diary” (1993): In this film, Nanni Moretti plays a fictional version of himself, who embarks on a series of quirky and insightful adventures around Rome.

The film is both funny and touching, and is a perfect example of Moretti’s unique style of storytelling.

“The Son’s Room” (2001): This film tells the story of a family struggling to come to terms with the death of their son.

It is a powerful exploration of grief and loss, and was highly acclaimed by critics and audiences alike. The film won the Palme d’Or at the 2001 Cannes Film Festival.

“Aprile” (1998): This film is a humorous and insightful look at the Italian political scene in the late 1990s. Moretti combines personal anecdotes with political commentary to create a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

“Caro Diario” (1993): In this film, Moretti again plays a fictionalized version of himself, this time exploring the different neighborhoods of Rome on his scooter.

The film is an engaging and entertaining exploration of personal identity and the city of Rome.

Best Nanni Moretti Films

Nanni Moretti’s films are highly personal and deeply insightful, exploring a range of issues related to personal and political life.

His work is marked by a unique sense of humor and a keen eye for detail, and his films are both entertaining and thought-provoking. They are a must-see for fans of intelligent and engaging cinema.

1. The Son’s Room (2001)

“The Son’s Room” is a 2001 Italian drama film directed by Nanni Moretti. The film tells the story of a family who are thrown into disarray after the sudden death of their son.

The father, played by Moretti himself, is a psychotherapist who is struggling to come to terms with his grief and guilt.

His wife, played by Laura Morante, is also struggling with her own sense of loss and feelings of disconnection from her husband and surviving daughter.

As the family tries to cope with their tragedy, they are forced to confront the fragility of life and the deep emotional wounds that exist within their relationships.

The film explores themes of grief, family dynamics, and the difficulty of moving on after a traumatic event.

   

“The Son’s Room” was well-received by critics upon its release and won the Palme d’Or at the 2001 Cannes Film Festival.

The film is known for its emotional depth and sensitivity, and its exploration of the complexities of human relationships. It is regarded as one of Moretti’s best films and an important work of contemporary Italian cinema.

The Son's Room [DVD]
  • Nanni Moretti, Laura Morante, Jasmine Trinca (Actors)
  • Nanni Moretti (Director) - Linda Ferri (Writer) - Angelo Barbagallo (Producer)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

2. Dear Diary (1993)

Dear Diary (Italian: Caro diario) is a 1993 Italian film written and directed by Nanni Moretti.

The film is a personal and introspective journey, comprised of three distinct chapters, where the director travels through different Italian locations, reflecting on his life, his country, and the world around him.

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The first chapter, “On My Vespa,” follows Moretti as he rides his Vespa through the streets of Rome, visiting various places and encountering different people along the way.

The second chapter, “Islands,” follows Moretti as he travels to a series of remote islands, reflecting on his relationship with the sea and his own mortality.

The third and final chapter, “Doctors,” follows Moretti as he visits a series of doctors in search of a diagnosis for a mysterious rash on his skin.

   

Dear Diary is praised for its unique and personal style, with Nanni Moretti’s voice-over narration and use of visual symbolism creating an intimate and introspective atmosphere.

The film is also praised for its humorous and often poignant observations on Italian culture and politics, and for its ability to explore complex themes in a relatable and accessible way.

Dear Diary was well-received by critics and won the Best Director award at the 1994 Cannes Film Festival. It is regarded as a significant work in the oeuvre of Nanni Moretti and is seen as a landmark film in Italian cinema.

Dear Diary [DVD] [1993]
  • English (Subtitle)
  • Audience Rating: NC-17 (Adults Only)

3. Aprile (1998)

“Aprile” is a 1998 Italian film directed by Nanni Moretti, who also stars in the film as a fictionalized version of himself.

The film is a semi-autobiographical account of Moretti’s experiences during the 1994 Italian general election, which saw the rise of media mogul Silvio Berlusconi to the office of prime minister.

The film is a mix of documentary and fictional elements, and follows Moretti as he tries to balance his personal life with his political activism.

Moretti’s character is portrayed as a passionate and committed leftist, who is deeply troubled by the rise of Berlusconi and the Italian right-wing.

The film is known for its blend of political commentary and personal introspection, and for its exploration of the relationship between politics and personal life.

It also touches on themes of fatherhood, love, and the struggles of creative expression.

“Aprile” is a highly personal and idiosyncratic film that defies easy categorization. It is a unique and provocative work that combines humor, politics, and introspection in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking

. The film received critical acclaim for its originality, honesty, and insight, and is widely regarded as one of Moretti’s finest works.

   
Aprile [DVD] [1998]
  • April ( Aprile )
  • April
  • Aprile
  • Nanni Moretti, Silvio Orlando, Silvia Nono (Actors)
  • Nanni Moretti (Director) - April ( Aprile ) (Producer)

4. The Caiman (2006)

“The Caiman” is an Italian political satire film directed by Nanni Moretti and released in 2006.

The film tells the story of a struggling Italian filmmaker named Bruno Bonomo, who is in the process of making a political satire film about Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, whom he despises.

As he struggles to get his film made, Bonomo’s personal and professional life begin to unravel, and he is forced to confront his own values and beliefs.

The film explores themes of politics, media, and the nature of artistic expression.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QdDYdV4rUc

“The Caiman” was a critical success and won several awards, including the Best Screenplay award at the Cannes Film Festival.

The film is noted for its clever and incisive commentary on Italian politics and society, and for its deft blend of humor and drama.

It is a powerful and thought-provoking work of cinema that continues to resonate with audiences today.

The Caiman ( Il Caimano ) ( Le Caïman ) [ NON-USA FORMAT, PAL, Reg.2 Import - Italy ]
  • The Caiman ( Il Caimano ) ( Le Caïman )
  • The Caiman
  • Il Caimano
  • Le Caïman
  • Margherita Buy, Michele Placido, Toni Bertorelli (Actors)

5. Bianca (1983)

“Bianca” is a 1984 Italian film directed by Nanni Moretti, who also stars in the film.

The film is a comedy-drama that follows the life of a young teacher named Ludovica, played by Moretti’s real-life wife, who is nicknamed “Bianca” (which means “white” in Italian) due to her shy and introverted personality.

The film explores themes of love, friendship, and personal growth, as Ludovica struggles to adapt to the challenges of teaching, dealing with a difficult student, and navigating the complexities of romantic relationships.

Moretti’s performance as the neurotic and self-absorbed husband of Ludovica adds a touch of humor to the film, while also providing a sharp contrast to the introspective and often somber tone of the story.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Phkz3HQU8q8

One of the notable aspects of “Bianca” is its use of black and white cinematography, which gives the film a timeless and classic feel.

The film also features a soundtrack of classical music, which adds to the elegant and sophisticated ambiance of the film.

Overall, “Bianca” is a charming and poignant film that provides a perceptive and sensitive portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of everyday life.

Miss Bianca
  • The Rescuers
  • Children's Story
  • Adventure
  • Mouse
  • Rescue

6. Sweet Dreams (1981)

“Bianca” is a 1984 Italian film directed by Nanni Moretti, who also stars in the film.

The film is a comedy-drama that follows the life of a young teacher named Ludovica, played by Moretti’s real-life wife, who is nicknamed “Bianca” (which means “white” in Italian) due to her shy and introverted personality.

The film explores themes of love, friendship, and personal growth, as Ludovica struggles to adapt to the challenges of teaching, dealing with a difficult student, and navigating the complexities of romantic relationships.

Moretti’s performance as the neurotic and self-absorbed husband of Ludovica adds a touch of humor to the film, while also providing a sharp contrast to the introspective and often somber tone of the story.

One of the notable aspects of “Bianca” is its use of black and white cinematography, which gives the film a timeless and classic feel.

The film also features a soundtrack of classical music, which adds to the elegant and sophisticated ambiance of the film.

Overall, “Bianca” is a charming and poignant film that provides a perceptive and sensitive portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of everyday life.

   

Sweet Dreams
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Jessica Lange, Ed Harris, Ann Wedgeworth (Actors)
  • Karel Reisz (Director) - Robert Getchell (Writer) - Charles Mulvehill (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

7. We Have a Pope (2011)

We Have a Pope (Italian: Habemus Papam) is a 2011 Italian-French comedy-drama film directed by Nanni Moretti.

The film tells the story of a newly elected Pope who experiences a crisis of faith and refuses to accept his new role, causing chaos within the Vatican.

The film begins with the death of the Pope, and the subsequent election of a new one. After being elected, the new Pope, played by Michel Piccoli, becomes overwhelmed by the magnitude of the position and the responsibility it entails.

In an unexpected turn of events, the Pope decides to seek the help of a psychoanalyst, played by Nanni Moretti, in an effort to come to terms with his doubts and fears.

We Have a Pope is praised for its lighthearted and humorous approach to a sensitive and complex subject matter.

The film is also praised for its strong performances, with Michel Piccoli delivering a nuanced and emotional portrayal of a man struggling to come to terms with the weight of his position.

The film is not only a commentary on the power of the Catholic Church, but also a reflection on the pressures and expectations placed on leaders and public figures in general.

We Have a Pope is a thought-provoking and entertaining film that explores important themes of identity, faith, and the human condition.

We Have a Pope (2011) ( Habemus Papam ) [ NON-USA FORMAT, Blu-Ray, Reg.B Import - Italy ]
  • We Have a Pope (2011) ( Habemus Papam )
  • We Have a Pope (2011)
  • Habemus Papam
  • Michel Piccoli, Renato Scarpa, Margherita Buy (Actors)
  • Nanni Moretti (Director) - We Have a Pope (2011) ( Habemus Papam ) (Producer)

8. Ecce bombo (1978)

“Ecce Bombo” is a 1978 Italian film directed by Nanni Moretti, who also stars in the film as a fictionalized version of himself.

The film is a semi-autobiographical coming-of-age story that follows a group of young people in Rome during the late 1970s.

The film is known for its mix of humor and political commentary, and for its exploration of the anxieties and uncertainties of youth.

Moretti’s character is portrayed as a confused and uncertain young man, who is struggling to find his place in the world while navigating the political and social upheavals of the time.

The film is also noted for its use of non-linear narrative and its eclectic mix of visual styles and techniques.

Moretti employs a range of cinematic techniques, including documentary-style interviews, direct-to-camera address, and surreal dream sequences, to create a complex and multifaceted portrait of the era.

“Ecce Bombo” is a highly personal and idiosyncratic film that defies easy categorization. It is a unique and provocative work that combines humor, politics, and introspection in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

The film received critical acclaim for its originality, honesty, and insight, and is widely regarded as one of Moretti’s best early works.

Ecce Bombo
  • French (Subtitle)
  • French (Publication Language)

9. I Am Self Sufficient (1976)

“I Am Self Sufficient” (Italian: “Io sono autarchico”) is a 1976 Italian film directed by Nanni Moretti. The film tells the story of Michele, a young man who lives in Rome and dreams of being a radical political activist.

However, he finds it hard to find his place in the world and his political ideals are often in conflict with his personal life.

The film is a satire of the political and social climate of Italy during the 1970s, and it offers a humorous and thought-provoking commentary on the contradictions and complexities of modern life.

Moretti’s direction is sharp and incisive, and his use of humor to explore serious themes is both refreshing and effective.

   

“I Am Self Sufficient” was a critical success and is widely considered to be one of Moretti’s most important films.

It offers a unique and insightful perspective on contemporary Italy, and its themes of political disillusionment and personal struggles are still relevant today.

The film is also notable for its exceptional performances, especially by Moretti himself in the lead role. Overall, “I Am Self Sufficient” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that is well worth watching for anyone interested in Italian cinema or political satire.

Sale
The Complete Book of Self-Sufficiency
  • Hardcover Book
  • Seymour, John (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 256 Pages - 11/04/1976 (Publication Date) - Faber and Faber (Publisher)

3 Characteristics of Nanni Moretti Films

Nanni Moretti is a highly regarded Italian filmmaker known for his unique style and his ability to blend humor and drama. Here are three characteristics that are often associated with his films:

Autobiographical elements: Many of Moretti’s films contain elements of his own life and experiences, often presented through the lens of his alter ego, the character of Michele Apicella.

Moretti frequently draws on his own experiences and emotions to create deeply personal and relatable stories.

Blending of humor and drama: Moretti is known for his ability to seamlessly blend humor and drama, often within the same scene.

His films are often marked by their witty and incisive humor, which is used to explore serious themes and issues in a way that is both accessible and thought-provoking.

Social and political commentary: Moretti’s films are often marked by their incisive commentary on Italian society and politics.

He is known for his ability to use personal stories to explore larger social and political issues, and his films often contain powerful critiques of Italian society and its institutions.

Overall, Nanni Moretti’s films are characterized by their unique blend of personal storytelling, humor, and incisive social and political commentary.

His films are often deeply human and relatable, while also challenging viewers to reflect on the larger issues that shape our world.

3 Reasons Why You Should Watch Nanni Moretti Films

Nanni Moretti is an accomplished filmmaker whose films are known for their unique blend of humor, emotion, and social commentary. Here are three reasons why you should watch his films:

Insightful explorations of personal and political issues: Moretti’s films often explore personal and political issues in a way that is both perceptive and insightful.

He is known for his ability to create complex characters who are struggling with a range of personal and social issues, and his films often provide a nuanced and thought-provoking look at contemporary society.

A unique sense of humor: Moretti’s films are often marked by a unique sense of humor that is both intelligent and irreverent.

His use of irony, satire, and self-deprecation adds an extra layer of depth to his films, making them both engaging and entertaining.

A distinctive visual style: Moretti’s films are often marked by a distinctive visual style, which combines a naturalistic approach to storytelling with a sense of poetic realism.

His use of long takes, close-ups, and subtle camera movements creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy, allowing the viewer to feel fully immersed in the world of the film.

Overall, Nanni Moretti’s films offer a unique and highly engaging cinematic experience, combining humor, emotion, and social commentary in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

If you are a fan of intelligent and insightful cinema, his films are definitely worth watching.

Best Nanni Moretti Films – Wrapping Up

In summary, Nanni Moretti is a celebrated Italian filmmaker known for his unique style of filmmaking and his insightful commentary on contemporary Italian society. Some of his best films include:

“Caro Diario” (1993) – a semi-autobiographical film that explores Moretti’s personal experiences and reflections on Italian society.

“The Son’s Room” (2001) – a poignant drama that explores the impact of a family tragedy on its members.

“Aprile” (1998) – a humorous and insightful look at Italian politics and society during the 1990s.

“Dear Diary” (1994) – a compilation of three short films that explore Moretti’s observations on modern life.

“We Have a Pope” (2011) – a satirical film that explores the election of a new Pope and the challenges he faces.

Overall, Moretti’s films are known for their ability to provoke thoughtful discussions about contemporary society and human nature.

His unique blend of humor, satire, and drama has made him a beloved figure in Italian cinema, and his films continue to be widely celebrated by audiences and critics alike.