Lamberto Maggiorani

Lamberto Maggiorani

Born:August 28, 1909

Place of Birth:Roma, Lazio, Italy

Died:April 22, 1983

Known For:Acting

Biography

Lamberto Maggiorani, born on August 28, 1909, in Rome, Italy, left a lasting impact on the world of cinema with his unforgettable portrayal of Antonio Ricci in the iconic film "Bicycle Thieves." Despite not having a background in professional acting, Maggiorani's raw talent and authenticity shone through in his performance, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Before his foray into acting, Maggiorani worked as a turner in a factory, showcasing his strong work ethic and dedication to his craft. It was this same dedication that he brought to his role in "Bicycle Thieves," a performance that would define his career and solidify his place in cinematic history.

Following the success of "Bicycle Thieves," Maggiorani found himself thrust into the spotlight, garnering acclaim for his nuanced portrayal of a struggling father in post-World War II Italy. Despite his newfound fame, Maggiorani remained humble and grounded, never losing sight of his roots as a hardworking individual.

As his popularity soared, Maggiorani made the transition from a factory worker to a full-time actor, embracing his newfound passion with grace and humility. His ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability on screen set him apart from his contemporaries, earning him a reputation as a versatile and talented performer.

Throughout his career, Maggiorani continued to take on challenging roles that showcased his range as an actor, captivating audiences with his authenticity and depth of character. His commitment to his craft and his ability to inhabit each role with sincerity and depth solidified his status as a true talent in the world of cinema.

Despite facing challenges along the way, Maggiorani's perseverance and unwavering dedication to his art never wavered. His legacy lives on through his timeless performances, each one a testament to his talent and passion for storytelling.

On April 22, 1983, Lamberto Maggiorani passed away in his hometown of Rome, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences to this day. His contributions to cinema remain unparalleled, a testament to the power of authenticity and raw talent in the world of acting. Lamberto Maggiorani may have started as a factory worker, but he will always be remembered as a cinematic legend whose impact transcends time.

Images

Lamberto Maggiorani

Filmography

Acting

Bicycle Thieves

Bicycle Thieves

Antonio

1948

Unemployed Antonio is elated when he finally finds work hanging posters around war-torn Rome. However on his first day, his bicycle—essential to his work—gets stolen. His job is doomed unless he can find the thief. With the help of his son, Antonio combs the city, becoming desperate for justice.
Umberto D.

Umberto D.

(uncredited)

1952

When elderly pensioner Umberto Domenico Ferrari returns to his boarding house from a protest calling for a hike in old-age pensions, his landlady demands her 15,000-lire rent by the end of the month or he and his small dog will be turned out onto the street. Unable to get the money in time, Umberto fakes illness to get sent to a hospital, giving his beloved dog to the landlady's pregnant and abandoned maid for temporary safekeeping.
Mamma Roma

Mamma Roma

Sick Man

1962

After years spent working as a prostitute in her Italian village, middle-aged Mamma Roma has saved enough money to buy herself a fruit stand so that she can have a respectable middle-class life and reestablish contact with the 16-year-old son she abandoned when he was an infant. But her former pimp threatens to expose her sordid past, and her troubled son seems destined to fall into a life of crime and violence.