**Marcello Mastroianni** (1924-1996) was one of the most celebrated and internationally recognized Italian actors. Becoming a symbol of post-war Italian art-house cinema, his figure is inextricably linked to the worldwide success of films like Federico Fellini's *La Dolce Vita* (1960) and *8½* (1963), which catapulted him to stardom.

Mastroianni demonstrated remarkable versatility, ranging from the brilliant comedy *Divorce Italian Style* (1961), for which he earned an Academy Award nomination, to dramatic roles in masterpieces like *A Special Day* (1977) with Sophia Loren, his frequent co-star.

His style was characterized by natural elegance, a subtle melancholy, and a discreet charm. He often played complex men: disillusioned intellectuals, tormented "latin lovers," or human and fragile figures, far removed from stereotypes, making him an icon of depth and humanity on screen.