Bruno Grillo presents: “Fabrizi and Rossellini: A Friendship on the Set of Neorealism”

Summer in the Library 2026 – “Friday Author Series”

The “Friday Author Series” is a collection of six literary events featuring authors who will present their latest works, ranging from fiction to non-fiction. These meetings, organized in collaboration with PromoCultura, will take place throughout June and July in the beautiful setting of the “Forini Lippi” park, located at Via Provinciale Lucchese 41.

“Fabrizi and Rossellini: A Friendship on the Set of Neorealism”

The friendship between Aldo Fabrizi (Rome, November 1, 1905 – April 2, 1990) and Roberto Rossellini (Rome, May 8, 1906 – June 3, 1977) was born on the adventurous set of Rome Open City (1945), the manifesto film of Neorealism. In 2025, the film marked its 80th anniversary, an occasion commemorated by initiatives across Italy—including the moving screening held at the Teatro Quirino in Rome on September 24, 2025, exactly on the same day and in the same venue as the original premiere. Bietti could not miss the opportunity to pay tribute to a master of our cinema, beloved worldwide and an inspiration to other great directors like Truffaut and Godard, as well as to one of the most famous actors of our cinematic golden age.

This booklet by Bruno Grillo traces, with passion and affection, the behind-the-scenes stories, encounters, and obstacles faced during the making of this acknowledged masterpiece, which was originally intended to have a completely different title. It was filmed amidst the rubble of a newly liberated Rome, featuring two stars of variety theatre and comedy transformed into heartbreaking heroes of the Resistance, cast alongside non-professional actors found on the street, using film stock recovered in daring ways, and driven by an energy that radiates from every frame, becoming a luminous and unforgettable legacy.

Above all, Grillo honors the relationship of mutual respect and friendship between Rossellini and Fabrizi, which also led to The Flowers of St. Francis (1950). In this film, Fabrizi—having played a courageous priest in Rome Open City (inspired by real-life martyrs)—transforms into the tyrant of Viterbo, all eyes and large mustache, grumbles and huffs, left disarmed before the gentle, firm kindness of the future saint and his followers. Just five years after Rome Open City, Rossellini stunned everyone—and Fabrizi, like a prickly tin man and marionette, went along with him—by changing tone, register, and intention, continuing to tell stories and battles for justice and freedom, walking along the ways of the Lord—which, as we know, are infinite.

Montecatini Terme awaits you to experience authentic emotions through culture, wellness, and events. Follow us on our social media channels to stay updated on all appointments and discover the latest news in the program.
Instagram
Facebook

Be inspired by our travel ideas to find the experience that best suits your needs.
See our vacation ideas