Rome, Open City (1945) Review in 2025
Rome, Open City is a powerful and emotional drama that explores the lives of ordinary people during the Nazi occupation of Rome. The film is a masterpiece of neorealist cinema, with stunning black-and-white cinematography and a gripping storyline.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to mature themes and graphic violence.
CineReview Recommendation
This film is a must-see for anyone interested in neorealist cinema, war dramas, or historical epics. It is a powerful and emotional experience that will leave you moved and inspired.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film tells the story of a young priest, Don Pietro Pellegrini, who becomes embroiled in the Italian resistance movement. As he navigates the treacherous landscape of war-torn Rome, he must confront his own faith and the harsh realities of war. Meanwhile, his friends and allies are hunted by the Nazis, leading to a tragic and devastating conclusion.
Review Details
story9.80/10
The story is a powerful and emotional exploration of the human experience during war. The film's narrative is gripping and engaging, with a strong focus on character development and themes of faith, hope, and redemption.
acting9.80/10
The acting in the film is outstanding, with each performer bringing their own unique energy to their role. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, making the film's emotional moments all the more powerful.
characters9.50/10
The characters in the film are well-developed and complex, with each one bringing their own unique perspective to the story. The performances are outstanding, particularly from Aldo Fabrizi and Anna Magnani.
direction9.80/10
Roberto Rossellini's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the human condition. The film's pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of intense action sequences and quieter moments of reflection.
cinematography9.90/10
The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful black-and-white images that capture the beauty and devastation of war-torn Rome. The use of shadows and lighting is particularly effective, adding to the film's emotional impact.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's powerful story, outstanding performances, and stunning cinematography make it a masterpiece of neorealist cinema.
Cons
The film's graphic violence and mature themes may be disturbing for some viewers.
Notable Quotes
"The city is open, but the people are not."
"The war is not just a physical battle, it is a spiritual one as well."
"We are not just fighting for our country, we are fighting for our faith."
