Cynthia Hawkins

This is a movie that simply cannot be described. It must be seen, and deeply experienced. Martin Scorsese does a fine analysis of it, and viewers should look it up, for a fuller enjoyment of this film. LA STRADA is at once poetic, tragic, exuberant, and allegorical. But see it, and then see how you feel. Because if you do not fall in love with Giulietta Masina on sight, there is truly something wrong with your heart. The cruel and brutish Zampano, the whimsical and fragile Fool, the music, the barren countryside, the circus characters beloved by Fellini - all of it combine for a film unlike any you will ever see again. Stay with it, until the very end. That last scene packs a wallop. And Anthony Quinn is simply superb. As are Masina and Basehart.