Celebrating Mastroianni's centennial, MoMA unveils rare restorations of his iconic films, showcasing his range beyond the "Latin lover" persona, including White Nights, a timeless exploration of love and solitude.
On December 12, 2024, The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) lit up with cinematic brilliance as it launched Marcello and Chiara Mastroianni, A Family Affair, a retrospective celebrating the legendary Marcello Mastroianni and his daughter, acclaimed actress Chiara Mastroianni. In partnership with Cinecittà, the evening opened with the U.S. Premiere of Cinecittà’s 4K Digital Restoration of Luchino Visconti’s Le Notti Bianche (White Nights, 1957), now restored in stunning 4K digital quality.
The collaboration between MoMA and Cinecittà is a testament to a shared dedication to preserving the essence of Italian cinema. Over two decades, their partnership has delivered memorable retrospectives honoring cinematic icons like Federico Fellini, Ennio Morricone, and Claudia Cardinale. This newest chapter focuses on the multifaceted careers of Marcello and Chiara Mastroianni, showcasing 17 films featuring Marcello and six starring Chiara.
A Night of Nostalgia and Elegance
The evening began with an elegant cocktail reception in MoMA’s stunning black-and-white Marlene Hess and James D. Zirin Lounge. Guests mingled in a warm and festive atmosphere, savoring the exquisite ambiance that only MoMA could provide. The sophisticated setting, complemented by carefully curated refreshments, set the tone for a night dedicated to the celebration of Italian cinematic heritage. The buzz of conversations—many in Italian—created an energy that seamlessly connected past and present, as attendees shared their admiration for Marcello Mastroianni and the artistry of Italian cinema. It was a moment where film lovers, art enthusiasts, and cultural connoisseurs came together, each bringing their own passion for the arts.
In reflecting on the event, “I must express how much I truly enjoyed the evening, thanks to Sally Fischer and her exceptional team at Sally Fischer PR. From start to finish, they hosted the event to perfection, creating an atmosphere that was both sophisticated and warm. Their attention to detail and seamless coordination made the night unforgettable, and I am grateful for their dedication to making it such a memorable experience. Un evento impeccabile (an impeccable event).”
As the evening transitioned into the main event, the crowd gathered in the auditorium for an engaging speech that reflected the deep cultural significance of the retrospective. Cinecittà’s representatives eloquently highlighted Mastroianni’s enduring legacy and the profound influence of the Golden Age of Italian cinema on global culture. There was a palpable sense of reverence as Chiara Mastroianni (actress and daughter of Marcello Mastroianni and Catherine Deneuve) took the stage to offer a heartfelt tribute to her father, speaking about his artistic brilliance and their shared connection through the lens of film. Her words, filled with sincerity and nostalgia, resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom felt a renewed appreciation for Mastroianni’s contributions to the cinematic arts.
The highlight of the evening was, of course, the screening of Marcello Mio, a deeply personal and moving film by Chiara Mastroianni. As the lights dimmed, the audience was transported into a world where art and legacy intertwined, offering an intimate glimpse into Marcello Mastroianni’s life and his profound impact on both his daughter and the world of cinema. The film’s narrative captured the essence of a father-daughter bond while reflecting on the timeless artistry of Italian film. It was a fitting tribute not only to Mastroianni but also to the vibrant culture he represented, leaving attendees inspired and reflective as they exited into the New York City night. The evening was a celebration of heritage, artistry, and the enduring power of film to bridge generations and cultures.
The evening was graced by luminaries, including Chiara Mastroianni herself, Cinecittà President Chiara Sbarigia, Chief Curator, Film at MoMA Rajendra Roy and Curator of Film, The Museum of Modern Art Josh Siegal.
In an intimate moment, Chiara shared her reflections on her father’s legacy, his aversion to the “Latin lover” stereotype, and his instinctive, eclectic approach to acting. Her heartfelt words painted a portrait of a man who embraced complexity and sought to contrast roles in comedy, drama, and political narratives.
“This is something very moving,” Chiara remarked. “I think my father would have laughed—he didn’t like so much attention. But we’re here to celebrate his 100th, and he’s not here to say no. Through him, it’s a way to celebrate cinema.”
Expanding on this thought, she says: “Bel Antonio came right after La Dolce Vita, and my father often said—he even mentioned this in interviews—that the timing was no coincidence. After La Dolce Vita, where he was labeled a ‘Latin lover,’ he decided to play an impotent man to subvert the stereotype. For him, contrast was everything. He never had a career plan; he acted on instinct, and you can feel that in his performances. His choices often reflected his deep engagement with life, and sometimes even political issues, through the films he selected.
The ‘Latin lover’ label really upset him—it was so reductive of his talent. Take La Dolce Vita, for instance. For those of you who’ve seen it, the character he plays is a loser, not a seducer. It’s a dark, melancholic film about a man who never truly conquers anything. The irony is that it became one of the most commercially successful films of its time. Now, pizzerias everywhere are named after it, but many don’t understand the deeper commentary on a specific moment in Italy’s history.
I also want to thank Cinecittà for their dedication to preserving films like these. The work of restoration is so important, and I have immense respect for everyone involved in ensuring that these cinematic treasures continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.”
Le Notti Bianche: A Cinematic Masterpiece
Luchino Visconti’s Le Notti Bianche was the highlight of the evening, captivating the audience with its delicate storytelling and evocative visuals. Based on Dostoevsky’s 1848 short story, the film follows a lonely man, played by Marcello Mastroianni, as he becomes entangled in a bittersweet romance. The role marked a turning point in Mastroianni’s career, showcasing his depth and versatility as an actor.
Josh Siegel, Curator of the Department of Film at MoMA, highlighted Mastroianni’s versatility and his role in Le Notti Bianche:
“We often think of Marcello Mastroianni as the ultimate Latin lover, though he famously quipped, ‘Once they call you a Latin lover, you’re in real trouble. Women will expect an Oscar performance in bed.’ He continues, noting how Mastroianni transcended this label with roles that showcased his depth, like his portrayal of the lonely dreamer in White Nights, based on Dostoevsky’s tale of a man who lived ‘a musty, useless life.’
Siegel continues, “Mastroianni excelled in roles that blended charm and vulnerability—estranged in La Notte, impotent in Bell’Antonio, or adrift in La Dolce Vita. His career spanned over 150 films, many of which have been beautifully restored by Cinecittà for this retrospective, including tonight’s premiere of White Nights, honoring the centennial of his birth.”
He concludes, “MoMA deeply thanks Chiara Mastroianni and Cinecittà for their collaboration in bringing these treasures to life, ensuring the legacy of one of cinema’s greatest talents endures.”
Honoring Italian Cinema
The retrospective, running through January 5, 2025, is a treasure trove for cinephiles, offering a unique opportunity to experience Mastroianni’s timeless performances. Cinecittà’s meticulous restorations bring new life to classics like Bel Antonio and Todo Modo, underscoring the importance of preserving cinematic heritage.
As Chiara Mastroianni eloquently stated, “I have so much respect for people involved in film restoration. It’s a way of making sure these stories endure for future generations.”
Celebrating Italian Cinema: A Conversation with Sally Fischer and Cinecittà
Joseph DeAcetis: What inspired you to organize, together with Cinecittà, this celebration of Marcello Mastroianni’s centenary, and how did you envision this event bringing together his legacy and the Golden Age of Italian cinema?
Cinecittà: Cinecittà’s decision to organize the centenary celebration of Marcello Mastroianni was inspired by his unparalleled contribution to both Italian cinema and global culture. Mastroianni, often regarded as the quintessential Italian film star, epitomized the elegance, charm, and complexity of Italian cinema during its Golden Age. His collaborations with iconic directors like Federico Fellini, Michelangelo Antonioni, and Vittorio De Sica created some of the most memorable films in cinematic history, solidifying his status as an international legend.
As the heart of Italian film production, Cinecittà has long been dedicated to preserving and celebrating Italy’s cinematic legacy. This retrospective was designed to honor Mastroianni’s contributions to film while highlighting the Golden Age of Italian cinema, a period of intense creative and artistic experimentation. By showcasing Mastroianni’s films, we aimed to reconnect audiences with this transformative era and ensure his influence continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.
Joseph DeAcetis: The collaboration between the Museum of Modern Art, Cinecittà, and your team is remarkable. Could you share how this partnership came to be and why MoMA was chosen as the venue for this special screening?
Sally Fischer and Cinecittà:
Sally Fischer and Cinecittà: The collaboration between Cinecittà, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and our PR agency has been a remarkable partnership, grounded in a shared vision of celebrating and preserving the legacy of Italian cinema. We have brought to MoMa the films of Alice and Alba Rowhracher, Claudia Cardinale and Pierpaolo Pasolini.
This particular partnership began with a mutual understanding of the significance of Marcello Mastroianni’s centenary and the desire to honor his contributions to both Italian and international cinema.
For over 20 years, SFPR and Cinecittà have collaborated with MoMA, making it a natural choice for this event. MoMA’s reputation as a premier venue for celebrating art and cinema resonates with both film lovers and art aficionados, providing the perfect stage for this ..
Joseph DeAcetis: What role does this event play in promoting Italian cinema and its cultural significance to contemporary audiences?
Sally Fischer and Cinecittà: The retrospective Marcello and Chiara Mastroianni, A Family Affair plays a pivotal role in celebrating Marcello’s legacy and promoting Italian cinema’s cultural richness to modern audiences. It highlights the emotional depth, artistry, and timeless relevance of Mastroianni’s work while underscoring the vibrant evolution of Italian cinema in the 21st century.
The inclusion of Chiara Mastroianni, Marcello’s daughter and an accomplished actress, adds a deeply personal dimension. Her film Marcello Mio offers an intimate reflection on her father’s life and legacy, bridging the past and present of Italian cinema. This event emphasizes the enduring cultural impact of Italian films and introduces new generations to the intellectual and artistic depth that defines Italian storytelling.
Joseph DeAcetis: Can you tell us more about the cocktail reception preceding the screening? How does it complement the evening’s themes of Italian artistry and cinema?
Sally Fischer: We are thrilled to host this cocktail reception, generously offered by MoMA in their stunning Marlene Hess and James D. Zirin Lounge. Held annually before the holidays, it provides guests with an opportunity to gather, celebrate, and enjoy a touch of Italian artistry in a setting that embodies elegance and creativity.
Joseph DeAcetis: Looking back on your career, what is the most rewarding aspect of hosting such culturally significant events?
Sally Fischer: Oh my, the satisfaction—pure satisfaction in knowing that I am sharing the excellencies of Italy with so many wonderful people. Il Bel Paese, Italia—fashion, food, film, music, art—no one does it better. How lucky are we to have wonderful clients like Cinecittà to share this archive of cultural heritage with the world.
The Legacy Continues
The retrospective also includes the North American premiere of Marcello Mio (2024), directed by Christophe Honoré and starring Chiara Mastroianni. The film blends homage with fiction, offering a poignant reflection on Marcello’s enduring influence.
Through this celebration, MoMA and Cinecittà invite audiences to rediscover the artistry of Marcello Mastroianni and witness the continuing legacy of Italian cinema through Chiara’s performances.
For screening schedules and tickets, visit MoMA’s website.
About the Author:
Joseph DeAcetis is a visionary force in the world of fashion, celebrated as one of the finest wardrobe stylists and art directors of his generation. His expertise and creativity have earned him accolades throughout the industry, placing him at the forefront of fashion’s evolution. Joseph’s work seamlessly weaves together style, culture, art, and fashion, with a special focus on the shifting landscape of menswear.
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