Federico Fellini’s La Strada (1954) is known as one of the best neo-realist films the world has ever seen. La Strada actually means ‘the road’. But the poetic depiction of journey of three central characters and the song Gelsomina leaves behind after her tragic life and death makes it a song of the road.

Some may argue this film is mainly about Zampano’s humanization. But for some it is forever song of wide eyed innocent, spirited and sad Gelsomina. No character is totally dark but we see enough dark shades of human mind. All characters are real and extremely humane (even Zampano’s bruteness has a human shade). Some say there is influence of Chaplin in the presentation and dramatization. But truly it depicts a journey of life where one is forever influenced by people one meets and lives with. Without one’s knowledge, for one’s own basic need, one can be a demon for some innocent soul. Beauty and beast reside within all.

Classic films always have a long lasting endearing quality which makes them tower above rest millions of films. The narration is simple and linear but it forever lingers. Not all stories and their depiction have such immense power. This movie shows why Federico Fellini will forever remain a master storyteller.

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