-- Original title: "Il mio viaggio in Italia" --
One of the most acclaimed directors of our time, Academy Award® nominee Martin Scorsese (GANGS OF NEW YORK, 2002; GOOD FELLAS, 1990; RAGING BULL, 1980), directs and narrates this remarkable in-depth look at the careers of great Italian filmmakers and their art's profound influence on him. With MY VOYAGE TO ITALY, Scorsese takes the viewer on a fascinating journey highlighting the classics of Italian cinema, from the neo-realism of post-war Italy through it's transition into opulent period drama and surrealist fantasy.
As with his account of American filmmaking "A Personal Journey With Martin Scorsese Through American Movies", Scorsese adopts a highly personal approach in looking at the greats of the Italian cinema, recalling how he first saw their movies in the 40s and 50s, often on TV. Illuminated by extended movie-clips and his own impassioned commentary, Scorsese's deeply personal observations offer an absorbing lesson in the history of Italian film, charting its direct connection to the best contemporary filmmaking.
Beginning with Roberto Rossellini's "Rome Open City", the film traces the development of Italian neorealism: its currents and its philosophy, evolution and descent. Classics such as "The Bicycle Thief" and "La Dolce Vita" are discussed alongside rarer titles like "Senso" and "Europa '51." Scorsese's appreciation is rooted in his identity as an Italian-American film-maker. Less a documentary than an impassioned essay, it ultimately provides a portrait of a national cinema that doubles as an autobiography.
"My Voyage to Italy" was a cultural initiative undertaken by Martin Scorsese as part of his tireless campaign in restoring and preserving the world's greatest films. Produced by iconic couturier Giorgio Armani, with the help of archivists Raffaele Donato, Kent Jones and the legendary screenwriter Suso Cecchi d'Amico ("The Bicycle Thief", "The Leopard"); the film serves as an ode and monument to the history of film.
Illuminated by insightful movie clips and his own impassioned commentary, Scorsese's deeply personal observations offer not only an absorbing lesson in the history of Italian film, but it's direct connection to the best in contemporary filmmaking as well. As inspiring as it is richly detailed, you'll never look at movies the same way again once you've experienced this landmark documentary!

Directed by Martin Scorsese ; RTI S.p.A./MediaTrade and Miramax Films Production in Association with Paso Doble Film and Cappa Productions