Cast
View AllSergio Castellitto
as Giancarlo Iacovoni
Margherita Buy
as Agata Iacovoni
Alice Teghil
as Caterina Iacovoni
Federica Sbrenna
as Daniela Germano
Margherita Mazzola
as Martina
Carolina Iaquaniello
as Margherita Rossi Chaillet
Martina Tasquetta
as Alessia
Galatea Ranzi
as Livia, Margherita's mother
Silvio Vannucci
as Fabietto Cruciani
Alessandra Celi
as Mrs. Germano
Pasquale Anselmo
as Riccardo
Luisella Boni
as Andreina, Gianfilippo's mother
Paola Tiziana Cruciani
as Aunt Marisa
Raffaella Lebboroni
as Livia's friend
Flavio Bucci
as Lorenzo Rossi Chaillet
Crew
Director
- Paolo Virzì
Producer
- Giovanni Stabilini
- Marco Chimenz
- Riccardo Tozzi
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Caterina in the Big City examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Paolo Virzì brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2003, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Caterina in the Big City took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 105 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 142 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 67 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2003, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Caterina in the Big City shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Roman Holiday, which focuses more on action than character development, Caterina in the Big City offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Umberto D. and Family Squares explore similar territory, Caterina in the Big City stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 24, 2003
- Runtime: 1h 45m