Acclaimed film director and historian Martin Scorsese has called Italian neorealism ‘the most precious moment in film history’; this course will consider why, and will address key films, practitioners and stylistic qualities of Italian Neorealism cinema. The film movement’s antecedents and influence will also be considered.

This topic will be explored through viewing and analysis of film extracts, tutor presentations and class discussions. Film extracts will include Bicycle Thieves (Vittorio De Sica, Italy, 1948), Rome 11 O'clock (Giuseppe De Santis, Italy, 1952), The Earth Trembles (Luchino Visconti, Italy, 1948), Bitter Rice Giuseppe De Santis, Italy, 1949) and Rome, Open City (Roberto Rossellini, Italy, 1945).

The qualities, production and reception of these films will be considered through viewing and analysis of film extracts, tutor presentations and class discussions.

This course is a follow-on to courses which looked at other films in the poll, but it is a stand-alone course and you do not need to have taken the previous ones.

Who is this course for?

This course is for anyone with an interest in film and a curiosity to learn more about cinema. You are not required to have any prior film knowledge of or familiarity with the films under discussion.

Will I need any equipment or materials?

You will need a notebook and pen to take notes. You are not required to purchase any textbooks or DVDs.

Practical information

This course will be taught through a combination of tutor presentations and group discussions.

How we’re keeping you safe

April 2022 update: Keeping you safe and healthy is our number one priority.

If you test positive for Covid-19 or are asked to isolate and are not able to attend your class or pre-booked event, please contact the Bishopsgate Box Office for further information (enquiries@bishopsgate.org.uk). Please do not come to the Institute in person if you have symptoms or have tested positive.

Wearing a face mask is no longer compulsory but we ask you to consider others when in our building and especially when spending time in crowded and enclosed spaces where you come into contact with people you don’t normally meet. You will see many of our staff and volunteers continuing to wear face masks and we are keeping the perspex screens at our reception desks.

Bishopsgate Institute has strict cleaning protocols in place and ventilation throughout the building. There are hand-sanitising stations available throughout the building and touch-free drinking fountains. Find out more about how we’re keeping you safe.

Bursary places

We provide a number of funded bursaries to people who find it hard to pay the full or concessionary rates. Find out more information on how to apply.