Marcello Mastroianni (1924-1996) was one of the most iconic and influential Italian actors of the 20th century. He achieved international fame through his collaboration with Federico Fellini, particularly with his unforgettable roles in *La Dolce Vita* (1960) and *8½* (1963), where he portrayed characters who embodied the existential crisis of modern society.

Mastroianni distinguished himself by portraying complex characters, often intellectuals or charming but tormented men, capable of expressing melancholy and disillusionment with elegance. His versatility led him to work with other great directors: Luchino Visconti (*The Leopard*, 1963), Vittorio De Sica (with whom he formed a celebrated duo with Sophia Loren in *Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow*, 1963, and *Marriage Italian Style*, 1964) and Ettore Scola (*A Special Day*, 1977).

Nominated three times for an Oscar, Mastroianni embodied the archetype of the "latin lover" with a depth and naturalness that made him a symbol of Italian cinema worldwide.