Films with: Bertini, Francesca

Assunta Spina and The Last Diva

An operatic tale of love and sacrifice in turn of the century Naples. After being assaulted by her jealous lover Michele, Assunta becomes the mistress of a corrupt Don so she can visit Michele while he is in prison. When Michele is unexpectedly released, he discovers Assunta's "betrayal", setting the stage for the film's tragic finale.

DVD 11829

Silent Shakespeare

In the early days of the cinema, pioneer filmmakers created these seven charming films based on the plays of William Shakespeare. Considered a "lowbrow" medium, the fledgling movie industry sought to elevate its status by immortalizing the classics and hiring the actors of the day. Most of these early photoplays were only one or two reels long but whatever they gave up in language and length, they made up for in exuberance, cinematic artistry, visual wit and bravura acting. Some films feature original hand-stenciled color.

DVD 1051