Umberto D.: the simplicity of Vittorio De Sica’s film begins in its title; it presents the focus of the story without any shred of a doubt. It’s not the story of its time and place, but of the central character (who happens to live in that time and place). Carlo Battisti plays him with touching simplicity, and makes the connection all the more powerful for it. The result is a very emotional and humane journey. G.R. Aldo’s camerawork is unadorned, but far from dull; Alessandro Cicognini’s score is a thing of beauty.