Early Life and Education
Pupi Avati, born Giuseppe Avati on November 3, 1938, in Bologna, Italy, is a renowned Italian film director, producer, and screenwriter. Avati hails from a bourgeois family, and he pursued his early education diligently, eventually graduating with a degree in Political Science. Before diving into the world of cinema, Avati worked for around four years at Findus, a period he later described as particularly unpleasant.
Early Passion for Jazz
Before establishing himself in the film industry, Avati had a deep passion for jazz music. He played the clarinet in the “Doctor Dixie Jazz Band” from 1959 to 1962. His departure from the band came when another iconic Bolognese musician, Lucio Dalla, joined. This separation was not due to any personal differences but rather a realization of the difference between passion and talent. Avati recognized that Dalla’s extraordinary talent urged him to seek his true calling, which led him to the cinematic world.
Transition to Cinema
Pupi Avati’s cinematic journey began with two grotesque horror films: “Balsamus, l’uomo di Satana” (1968) and “Thomas e gli indemoniati.” The latter featured a young Mariangela Melato. However, the films did not achieve commercial success in Italy, leading Avati to take a hiatus from directing. During this period, he contributed as a screenwriter to Pier Paolo Pasolini’s controversial film “Salò o le 120 giornate di Sodoma.”
Breakthrough and Recognition
In 1974, Avati directed “La mazurka del barone, della santa e del fico fiorone,” a film with a strong Fellini influence, starring Ugo Tognazzi, Paolo Villaggio, and Delia Boccardo. This film marked the beginning of Avati’s recognition in the Italian film industry. He followed this with “Bordella” (1976), a demonic musical that was met with critical censorship but featured a young Christian De Sica.
Avati’s significant breakthrough came with “La casa dalle finestre che ridono” (1976), a horror film about a painter restoring a haunted fresco. This film’s success allowed Avati to work in television, creating autobiographical series like “Jazz band” (1978) and “Cinema” (1979).
Success in the 1980s
The 1980s marked a prolific period for Avati. He directed “Una gita scolastica” (1983), which won two Silver Ribbons for Best Director and Best Original Story. This film tells the nostalgic tale of an elderly woman recalling a school trip. Other notable works from this period include “Regalo di Natale” (1986), which later had a sequel, “La rivincita di Natale” (2004), and “Storie di ragazzi e di ragazze” (1989), which won another two Silver Ribbons.
Diverse Filmography and Literary Contributions
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Avati continued to produce a wide range of films. “Festival” (1996), inspired by an episode in the life of Walter Chiari, and “I cavalieri che fecero l’impresa” (2001), are among his notable works. He also ventured into writing, publishing novels like “I cavalieri che fecero l’impresa” and his autobiography “Sotto le stelle di un film” (2008).
Personal Life and Continued Success
Pupi Avati’s personal life is closely intertwined with his professional journey. His brother, Antonio Avati, is also a prominent figure in the film industry, serving as a producer and screenwriter. Pupi’s collaboration with his brother has been a cornerstone of his successful career.
In 2003, Avati made a significant return to directing with “Il cuore altrove,” starring Neri Marcoré and Vanessa Incontrada. The film, set in the 1920s, tells the poignant love story between a teacher and a blind girl. This period marked a series of successful films, including “Ma quando arrivano le ragazze?” (2005), “La seconda notte di nozze” (2005), and “La cena per farli conoscere” (2007).
Recent Works and Legacy
In the 2010s, Avati continued to create impactful films. “Il papà di Giovanna” (2008) and “Il figlio più piccolo” (2010) are notable mentions. His autobiographical film “Il cuore grande delle ragazze” (2011), starring Cesare Cremonini and Micaela Ramazzotti, was presented at the Rome Film Festival.
In 2019, Avati returned to the horror genre with “Il signor diavolo,” based on his own novel. This film marked a return to his roots, blending supernatural elements with a compelling narrative. In 2021, he released “Lei mi parla ancora,” based on Giuseppe Sgarbi’s biographical novel, featuring Renato Pozzetto in a leading role.
Contributions to Italian Cinema
Pupi Avati has made significant contributions to Italian cinema, both as a director and a screenwriter. His works often reflect his deep appreciation for Italian culture and history, and his ability to blend genres has earned him a unique place in the film industry.
Influence and Recognition
Avati’s influence extends beyond his films. Since 1995, he has served as the president of the Fellini Foundation, a testament to his admiration for Federico Fellini, one of Italy’s most celebrated directors. Avati’s dedication to preserving and promoting Italian cinema has been a significant aspect of his career.
Essential Filmography
1970s
- “Thomas e gli indemoniati” (1970)
- “Balsamus, l’uomo di Satana” (1970)
- “La mazurka del barone, della santa e del fico fiorone” (1975)
- “Bordella” (1976)
- “La casa dalle finestre che ridono” (1976)
- “Tutti defunti… tranne i morti” (1977)
- “Jazz band” (1978) – Miniseries
- “Le strelle nel fosso” (1979)
- “Cinema!!!” (1979) – Miniseries
1980s
- “Aiutami a sognare” (1981)
- “Dancing Paradise” (1982)
- “Zeder” (1983)
- “Una gita scolastica” (1983)
- “Noi tre” (1984)
- “Impiegati” (1984)
- “Festa di laurea” (1985)
- “Hamburger Serenade” (1986) – Series
- “Regalo di Natale” (1986)
- “Ultimo minuto” (1987)
- “Sposi” (1987) – First episode
- “Storia di ragazzi e di ragazze” (1989)
- “È proibito ballare” (1989) – TV Movie
1990s
- “Fratelli e sorelle” (1991)
- “Bix” (1991)
- “Magnificat” (1993)
- “Dichiarazioni d’amore” (1994)
- “L’amico d’infanzia” (1994)
- “L’arcano incantatore” (1996)
- “Festival” (1996)
- “Il testimone dello sposo” (1998)
- “La via degli angeli” (1999)
2000s
- “I cavalieri che fecero l’impresa” (2001)
- “Il cuore altrove” (2003)
- “La rivincita di Natale” (2004)
- “Ma quando arrivano le ragazze?” (2005)
- “La seconda notte di nozze” (2005)
- “La cena per farli conoscere” (2007)
- “Il nascondiglio” (2007)
- “Il papà di Giovanna” (2008)
- “Gli amici del bar Margherita” (2009)
- “Il figlio più piccolo” (2010)
2010s
- “Una sconfinata giovinezza” (2010)
- “Il cuore grande delle ragazze” (2011)
- “Un ragazzo d’oro” (2014)
- “Il signor diavolo” (2019)
Conclusion
Pupi Avati’s illustrious career spans over five decades, during which he has established himself as a pillar of Italian cinema. His unique blend of genres, coupled with a deep appreciation for Italian culture, has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated following. As a director, screenwriter, and producer, Avati’s contributions to the arts have left an indelible mark, ensuring his legacy will be celebrated for generations to come.
