The Italian New Wave, or Nuovo Cinema Italiano, emerged in the late 1950s and 1960s as a response to the traditional Italian cinema. It focused on realism, often using non-professional actors and shooting on location. This movement sought to portray the complexities of contemporary Italian society, addressing themes like social issues and personal struggles. Key figures in the Italian New Wave include directors such as Federico Fellini, Michelangelo Antonioni, and Bernardo Bertolucci. Their films often broke conventional narrative structures, emphasizing visual storytelling and emotional depth. This innovative approach significantly influenced global cinema and paved the way for future filmmakers.