1. Early Life and Background
Nanni Moretti's formative years were shaped by a family environment rooted in education and a burgeoning passion for both cinema and water polo, which would profoundly influence his future career.
1.1. Childhood and Education
Born on 19 August 1953, in Bruneck, Italy, Moretti grew up in Rome, where he has resided since birth. His parents were both teachers, with his father, Luigi Moretti, being a distinguished epigraphist and a Greek teacher at Sapienza University of Rome. During his student days, Moretti developed a strong enthusiasm for cinema and water polo. His experience playing water polo in the B division of the Italian championship later became a direct inspiration for his film Red Wood Pigeon.
1.2. Family Relations
Nanni Moretti's family played a significant role in his life and work. His father, Luigi Moretti, not only contributed to his upbringing but also appeared in six of his son's films, often in minor roles. His brother, Franco Moretti, is a respected literary scholar. Nanni Moretti is married to Silvia Nono.
2. Early Career
Nanni Moretti's entry into the film industry began in the early 1970s, marking the start of a prolific career that would see him become a prominent figure in Italian cinema.
He commenced his filmmaking journey at the age of 20, directing his first two short films in 1973: Pâté de bourgeois and The Defeat (La sconfittaItalian). His debut as a feature film director came in 1976 with I Am Self Sufficient (Io sono un autarchicoItalian). The following year, in 1977, Moretti made his acting debut in a film not directed by himself, appearing in Father and Master (Padre padroneItalian), which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. In 1978, he wrote, directed, and starred in Ecce Bombo, a film that explored the struggles of a student with his social circle and was screened at the Cannes Film Festival, further establishing his presence in the industry.
3. Directorial Career
Nanni Moretti's directorial career is distinguished by his unique cinematic voice, marked by a blend of autobiographical elements, social commentary, and a critical, often self-deprecating, perspective. His films frequently feature him as the protagonist, exploring contemporary Italian society and personal dilemmas.
3.1. Feature Films
Moretti's feature films have consistently garnered critical acclaim and international recognition. Following his debut, I Am Self Sufficient (1976), he gained wider attention with Ecce Bombo (1978). His 1981 film, Sweet Dreams (Sogni d'oroItalian), earned him the Silver Lion at the 38th Venice International Film Festival. He continued to direct and star in films such as Sweet Body of Bianca (BiancaItalian, 1984) and The Mass Is Ended (La messa è finitaItalian, 1985), with the latter winning the Silver Bear - Special Jury Prize at the 36th Berlin International Film Festival.
In 1989, Moretti directed Red Wood Pigeon (Palombella RossaItalian), a film inspired by his own experiences as a water polo player. His 1993 film, Caro diario (Dear Diary), was a significant success, earning him the Best Director Award at the 47th Cannes Film Festival and the FIPRESCI Prize at the European Film Awards. This achievement made him one of the few directors to have won awards at all three major international film festivals by the age of 40. Every film he has directed since Caro diario has been shown at the Cannes Film Festival. Caro diario was followed by a sequel, Aprile (1998), which also delved into Italy's political landscape and Moretti's views on it.
His 2001 film, The Son's Room (La stanza del figlioItalian), received the prestigious Palme d'Or at the 2001 Cannes Film Festival, solidifying his international reputation. This film also earned the FIPRESCI Prize at Cannes and the David di Donatello Award for Best Film. Moretti's 2006 film, Il caimano, is notable for its critical portrayal of Silvio Berlusconi's controversies, with Moretti himself playing Berlusconi in one of the film's three segments. This film also received multiple David di Donatello Awards, including Best Film, Best Director, and Best Producer.
Moretti's later works include We Have a Pope (Habemus PapamLatin, 2011), which was screened In Competition at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival and won multiple Italian film awards. His 2015 film, Mia Madre (My Mother), also competed for the Palme d'Or at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival and received the Ecumenical Prize. Subsequent feature films include Three Floors (Tre pianiItalian, 2021) and A Brighter Tomorrow (Il sol dell'avvenireItalian, 2023), for which he received a David di Donatello Award for Best Film in 2024.
Moretti is known for frequently casting certain actors in minor roles, such as his father Luigi (in 6 films), Dario Cantarelli (5 films), Mauro Fabretti (5 films), and Antonio Petrocelli (4 films). More prominent Italian actors like Silvio Orlando (5 films, including the protagonist in Il caimano) and Laura Morante (in Sogni d'oro, Bianca, and The Son's Room) have also appeared in his works multiple times.
3.2. Short Films and Documentaries
In addition to his feature films, Moretti has directed a notable body of short films and documentaries, showcasing his diverse interests and experimental approach to filmmaking. His early short films, La sconfitta and Pâté de bourgeois, both from 1973, marked his directorial debut.
Later short films include The Only Country In The World (L'unico paese al mondoItalian, 1994) and Opening Day of Close-Up (Il Giorno della prima di Close UpItalian, 1996), which depicts Moretti at his cinema, Nuovo Sacher, encouraging patrons to attend the opening of Abbas Kiarostami's film Close Up. Other shorts include The Last Customer (2002), Il grido d'angoscia dell'uccello predatore (2003), L'ultimo campionato (2007), Diary Of A Moviegoer (Diario di uno spettatoreItalian, 2007, part of the omnibus film To Each His Own Cinema), Film Quiz (2008), Scava dolcemente l'addome (2013), Autobiografia dell'uomo mascherato (2013), Ischi allegri e clavicole sorridenti (2017), and Piazza Mazzini (2017).
His documentary work includes Come parli frate? (1974), The Thing (La cosaItalian, 1990), and Santiago (2018), which received the David di Donatello Award for Best Documentary in 2019 and the Ribbon of the Year at the Silver Ribbons.
4. Acting Career
Nanni Moretti is as recognized for his acting as he is for his directing, often starring in his own films and occasionally taking on roles in projects by other directors. His performances are typically characterized by a distinctive, often self-referential, and somewhat melancholic persona.
He made his acting debut in 1977 in Father and Master, directed by Paolo and Vittorio Taviani. He subsequently starred in most of his own directorial works, including Ecce Bombo (1978), Sweet Dreams (1981), Sweet Body of Bianca (1984), The Mass Is Ended (1985), Red Wood Pigeon (1989), Caro diario (1993), Aprile (1998), The Son's Room (2001), Il caimano (2006, where he famously portrayed Silvio Berlusconi in one segment), We Have a Pope (2011), Mia Madre (2015), and A Brighter Tomorrow (2023).
Beyond his own productions, Moretti has appeared in films such as Riso in bianco: Nanni Moretti atleta di se stesso (1984, TV movie), It's Happening Tomorrow (Domani accadràItalian, 1988), The Yes Man (Il portaborseItalian, 1991), The Second Time (La seconda voltaItalian, 1995), I Can See It in Your Eyes (2004, cameo), Quiet Chaos (Caos calmoItalian, 2008), and Venanzio Revolt: i miei primi 80 anno di cinema (2016, as narrator). His most recent acting role was in The Hummingbird (2022).
5. Political and Social Engagement
Nanni Moretti is a prominent figure in Italian public life, known for his active engagement with political and social issues, reflecting a consistent left-wing stance. His films often serve as a vehicle for his critical and socially conscious outlook, directly addressing contemporary Italian society and its challenges.
In 2002, Moretti notably organized and participated in street protests against the government of then-Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. His film Il caimano (2006) directly confronts Berlusconi's political controversies, offering a critical portrayal of the Italian prime minister. Similarly, his 1998 film Aprile also delves into Italy's political situation and expresses Moretti's views on it. Through his art and activism, Moretti consistently champions democratic values and human rights, critically analyzing the impact of political events on society.
6. Personal Life and Beliefs
Nanni Moretti resides in Rome, his birthplace. In 1989, he was diagnosed with cancer and underwent treatment, but later recovered. Beyond his filmmaking career, he is the co-owner of a small movie theater in Rome, named Nuovo Sacher. The cinema's name is a tribute to Moretti's fondness for Sachertorte, a famous Austrian chocolate cake. This personal detail highlights his unique blend of artistic and personal passions.
Regarding his personal philosophy, Moretti is openly atheist. He has stated, "I remember the shirts that said 'Thank God I'm an atheist'. Funny. But I do not think so. I'm not a believer and I'm sorry." This reflects a contemplative and somewhat melancholic aspect of his personal beliefs.
7. Awards and Honors
Nanni Moretti has received extensive recognition throughout his distinguished career, accumulating numerous awards and honors from major international film festivals, Italian film institutions, and critics' associations.
7.1. Major Film Festival Awards
Moretti has achieved the rare distinction of winning top awards at all three major international film festivals.
- Cannes Film Festival
- Prix de la mise en scène (Best Director) 1994: Caro diario
- Palme d'Or 2001: The Son's Room
- FIPRESCI Prize 2001: The Son's Room
- Carrosse d'Or 2004
- Rome's Award 2006: Il caimano
- Ecumenical Prize 2015: Mia Madre
- Jury President of the Official Competition 2012
- Venice Film Festival
- Silver Lion - Special Jury Prize 1981: Sweet Dreams
- "Bastone Bianco" Filmcritic Award 1989: Red Wood Pigeon
- Jury President 2001
- Berlin International Film Festival
- Silver Bear - Jury Grand Prix 1986: The Mass Is Ended
- Jury C.I.C.A.E Award 1986: The Mass Is Ended
- Chicago International Film Festival
- Golden Plaque for Best Documentary Short Film 2003: The Last Customer
- Silver Plaque for Best Screenplay 2008: Quiet Chaos
- European Film Awards
- FIPRESCI Prize 1994: Caro diario
- São Paulo International Film Festival
- Critics Award 1990: Red Wood Pigeon
- Sudbury Cinéfest
- Best International Film 1994: Caro diario
- Sant Jordi Awards
- Best Foreign Film 1995: Caro diario
- Guild of German Art House Cinemas
- Guild Film Award - Silver 2002: The Son's Room
7.2. Italian Film Awards
Moretti has been extensively honored by Italian film institutions, reflecting his profound impact on national cinema.
- David di Donatello
- Alitalia Award 1986
- Golden Medal of the City of Rome 1986
- Best Actor 1991: The Yes Man
- Best Film 1994: Caro diario
- Best Film 2001: The Son's Room
- Best Film 2006: Il caimano
- Best Director 2006: Il caimano
- Best Producer 2006: Il caimano
- Best Documentary 2019: Santiago
- Best Film 2024: A Brighter Tomorrow
- Silver Ribbon
- Best Story 1978: Ecce Bombo
- Best Producer 1988: It's Happening Tomorrow
- Best Story 1990: Red Wood Pigeon
- Best Producer 1992: The Yes Man
- Best Director 1994: Caro diario
- Best Producer 1996: The Second Time
- Best Director 2001: The Son's Room
- Best Producer 2007: Il caimano
- Best Director 2011: We Have a Pope
- Best Story 2011: We Have a Pope
- Best Producer 2011: We Have a Pope
- Ribbon of the Year 2019: Santiago
- Ciak d'oro Awards
- Best Director 1986: The Mass Is Ended
- Best Screenplay 1986: The Mass Is Ended
- Best Director 1990: Red Wood Pigeon
- Best Film 1994: Caro diario
- Best Director 1994: Caro diario
- Best Screenplay 1994: Caro diario
- Best Film 2001: The Son's Room
- Best Director 2001: The Son's Room
- Best Film 2006: Il caimano
- Best Director 2006: Il caimano
- Best Screenplay 2006: Il caimano
- Best Film 2011: We Have a Pope
- Best Screenplay 2011: We Have a Pope
- Best Director 2015: Mia Madre
- Honorary Ciak d'oro 2019
- UBU Awards
- Best Italian Movie 1977/78: Ecce Bombo
- Best Actor 1984/85: Sweet Body of Bianca
- Globi d'oro Awards
- Best Debut 1977: I Am Self Sufficient
- Best Film 1994: Caro diario
- Best Film 2011: We Have a Pope
7.3. Other Notable Accolades
Beyond film-specific awards, Moretti has received broader recognition for his cultural contributions.
- Cahiers du cinéma
- Best Film 1989: Red Wood Pigeon (ex aequo with Do the Right Thing)
- Best Film 1994: Caro diario
- Best Film 2011: We Have a Pope
- Best Film 2015: Mia Madre
- Order of Merit of the Italian Republic (Grande Ufficiale OMRI) 1996
- French Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Commander) 2012
8. Influence and Critical Reception
Nanni Moretti's filmmaking has left a significant mark on both Italian and global cinema, establishing him as a director with a distinct and influential voice. Critics often describe his films as wryly humorous and eccentric, frequently starring himself in roles that blend autobiographical elements with broader social commentary.
His work is lauded for its unique blend of personal introspection and sharp social and political critique. Moretti's ability to weave his own experiences and anxieties into narratives that resonate with wider societal concerns has made his films particularly relevant. The consistent critical acclaim he has received, evidenced by his numerous awards from prestigious festivals and critics' associations, underscores his artistic contributions and the enduring social relevance of his work. His films are seen as a reflection of contemporary Italy, offering a critical yet often empathetic perspective on its complexities and contradictions.
9. Filmography
Nanni Moretti's extensive filmography showcases his prolific output as a director, screenwriter, and actor across various formats.
9.1. Directed Works
Moretti's directorial portfolio includes a wide range of feature films, short films, and documentaries, many of which he also wrote and starred in.
| Year | Title | Original Title | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 | I Am Self Sufficient | Io sono un autarchico | Debut feature film |
| 1977 | Un autarchico a palazzo | Un autarchico a palazzo | TV movie |
| 1978 | Ecce Bombo | Ecce bombo | Also writer and actor |
| 1981 | Sweet Dreams | Sogni d'oro | Also writer and actor; won Silver Lion at Venice |
| 1984 | Sweet Body of Bianca | Bianca | Also writer and actor |
| 1985 | The Mass Is Ended | La messa è finita | Also writer and actor; won Silver Bear - Jury Grand Prix at Berlin |
| 1989 | Red Wood Pigeon | Palombella Rossa | Also writer, actor, and producer; inspired by his water polo experience |
| 1993 | Caro diario | Caro diario | Also writer, actor, and producer; won Best Director at Cannes |
| 1998 | Aprile | Aprile | Also writer, actor, and producer |
| 2001 | The Son's Room | La stanza del figlio | Also story, actor; won Palme d'Or at Cannes |
| 2006 | Il caimano | Il caimano | Also writer, story |
| 2011 | We Have a Pope | Habemus Papam | Also writer, story, actor, and producer |
| 2015 | Mia Madre | Mia madre | Also writer, story, actor, and producer |
| 2021 | Three Floors | Tre piani | |
| 2023 | A Brighter Tomorrow | Il sol dell'avvenire | Also writer, actor, and producer |
| Year | Title | Original Title |
|---|---|---|
| 1973 | The Defeat | La sconfitta |
| 1973 | Pâté de bourgeois | Pâté de bourgeois |
| 1994 | The Only Country In The World | L'unico paese al mondo |
| 1996 | Opening Day of Close-Up | Il Giorno della prima di Close Up |
| 2002 | The Last Customer | The Last Customer |
| 2003 | Il grido d'angoscia dell'uccello predatore | Il grido d'angoscia dell'uccello predatore |
| 2007 | L'ultimo campionato | L'ultimo campionato |
| 2007 | Diary Of A Moviegoer | Diario di uno spettatore |
| 2008 | Film Quiz | Film Quiz |
| 2013 | Scava dolcemente l'addome | Scava dolcemente l'addome |
| 2013 | Autobiografia dell'uomo mascherato | Autobiografia dell'uomo mascherato |
| 2017 | Ischi allegri e clavicole sorridenti | Ischi allegri e clavicole sorridenti |
| 2017 | Piazza Mazzini | Piazza Mazzini |
| Year | Title | Original Title | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1974 | Come parli frate? | Come parli frate? | Medium-length film |
| 1990 | The Thing | La cosa | Medium-length film |
| 2018 | Santiago | Santiago |
9.2. Actor Appearances
Nanni Moretti has acted in numerous films and television productions, both his own and those directed by others.
| Year | Title | Original Title | Role | Director(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1977 | Father and Master | Padre padrone | Paolo and Vittorio Taviani | |
| 1984 | Riso in bianco: Nanni Moretti atleta di se stesso | Riso in bianco: Nanni Moretti atleta di se stesso | Marco Colli | |
| 1988 | It's Happening Tomorrow | Domani accadrà | Daniele Luchetti | |
| 1991 | The Yes Man | Il portaborse | Daniele Luchetti | |
| 1995 | The Second Time | La seconda volta | Mimmo Calopresti | |
| 2004 | I Can See It in Your Eyes | I Can See It in Your Eyes | Cameo | Valia Santella |
| 2008 | Quiet Chaos | Caos calmo | Antonello Grimaldi | |
| 2016 | Venanzio Revolt: i miei primi 80 anno di cinema | Venanzio Revolt: i miei primi 80 anno di cinema | Narrator | Fabrizio Dividi, Marta Evangelisti, Vincenzo Greco |
| 2022 | The Hummingbird | The Hummingbird |