Plot: The Italian city of Naples, devastated by World War II, lies in ruins. Orphaned children Carmine and Celestina survive life in the rubble-strewn streets by helping each other and, like so many others, they dream of going to America, where Celestina’s sister, who emigrated earlier, lives. One night, they stow away on a ship with an eccentric captain bound for New York and join hordes of Italian emigrants hoping for a better life in this strange new country.
Based on an original screenplay by Federico Fellini and Tullio Pinelli from the 1980s.
The Italian Film Festival USA is the largest festival dedicated exclusively to Italian film in the USA, present in 13 cities from coast to coast.
The 2026 edition brings you the best line-up of recent Italian cinema with films from award-winning directors, as well as debut films from exciting new talent. This is your chance to see the latest and best in Italian film.
The full film lineup, screening venues, and special events will be announced soon on the Italian Film Festival website. All films will be screened at 5th PSU Avenue Cinema, 510 SW Hall Street, Portland, OR 97201 on Portland State University Campus. Free admission. All movies with English subtitles.