8½
Director: Federico Fellini
Actors: Marcello Mastroianni, Anouk Aimée, Claudia Cardinale
PlotA renowned film director suffering from creative blocks becomes entangled in a web of personal and professional dilemmas as he attempts to create his next movie. Amidst pressure from producers eager to see progress, he retreats into a world of memories, fantasies, and dreams in search of inspiration. His struggles are compounded by the chaotic intersection of his past relationships, notably with his wife and various mistresses, who each hold a piece of his fragmented identity. Haunted by existential doubts and artistic insecurities, he must navigate the swirling cacophony of voices and visions that dominate his mind.
The film explores themes of self-reflection, the nature of creativity, and the burden of expectations within an artist’s life. Against the backdrop of stark visuals and surreal sequences, the director faces his inner turmoil, caught between the contradictory desires for freedom and connection. He contemplates his own failures as a husband and a creator while grappling with the relentless demands of those around him. As he wades through this inner chaos, the boundaries between reality and imagination blur, leading him on a tumultuous journey to reconcile his personal aspirations with professional obligations. Struggling to silence the noise surrounding him, he embarks on a path to find clarity and a renewed sense of purpose.
Writers: Federico Fellini, Ennio Flaiano, Tullio Pinelli
Release Date: 24 Jun 1963
Runtime: 138 min
Rating: Not Rated
Country: Italy, France
Language: Italian, French, English, German
Home Video Reviews
Fellini's '8½' is a timeless masterpiece of artistic introspection, now stunningly presented in 4K by Criterion, capturing its intricate cinematic magic.
Read our review of 8½ 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray to find out more