Pietro Germi (Genoa, 1914 – Rome, 1974) was an Italian director, screenwriter, actor, and producer, and one of the most influential and complex figures of post-war cinema. His career began within the neorealist tradition, with works of strong social engagement and critique such as *In nome della legge* (1949) and *Il cammino della speranza* (1950). Beginning in the 1960s, Germi became one of the leading exponents of commedia all'italiana, offering a biting and satirical version of the genre that caustically analyzed the vices and hypocrisies of Italian society. With his masterpiece *Divorzio all'italiana* (1961), he achieved international fame, winning the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. He continued his critique of national customs with films like *Sedotta e abbandonata* (1964) and *Signore & signori* (1966), the latter of which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. He was also an acclaimed actor, often starring in his own films, such as *Il ferroviere* (1956). He died during the preparation of *Amici miei*, which was later completed by Mario Monicelli.