The Types of Love in 'Cinema Paradiso'

"Cinema Paradiso", an Italian drama written and directed by Giuseppe Tornatore, depicts the childhood through young-adulthood of a successful film director named Salvatore. Upon receiving the news of the death of Alfredo, a friend and father-figure from his past, Salvatore (called Toto in youth) recalls his personal history. Through flashbacks, viewers are taken into small village of Giancaldo, the home of Salvatore's youth.

"Cinema Paradiso" is both charming and emotional, using different kinds of passions to perpetuate the story and draw the viewer in. Below are some examples of the types of love portrayed in the film.

Friendship/ Platonic Love

One of the main themes of the movie is the friendship between Toto and Alfredo, the owner of the local movie theater Cinema Paradiso. Although at first Alfredo isn't too keen on a child hanging around his workplace, he develops affection for the little Toto. Later Toto will come to him for advice, work as his apprentice, and begin to see Alfredo as a father-figure. Alfredo, too, will enjoy Toto's company and assistance, seeing him as a sort of son.

Erotic Love

This is the love Toto feels for Elena. At first he is drawn to her beauty and films her; she becomes something he desires beyond all else. He actively peruses her, and after a long period of chasing, finally wins her heart. In this, the audience can relate to the emotions and desires that surrounded their first romances.

Love of Community

The citizens of Giancaldo have an incredibly strong connection to their community. Everyone knows and respects the priest; the cinema serves as a community center as much as a place to view a film; everyone knows the children's parents and there were no issues with letting them explore the town unsupervised; and everyone has a place.

Love of Craft

Toto initially starts bothering Alfredo simply because he loves movies. At a very young age, he would ask the priest (in charge of viewing and censoring material in the films) if he could accompany him to the theatre, and he would spy if he was forbidden.

This attraction to film fueled his interest in working for Alfredo despite the effort involved. He learned film craft techniques through this; and this eventually led him to the successful career as a famous filmmaker. Alfredo recognizes and encourages this dream, saying: "Whatever you end up doing, love it. The way you loved the projection booth, when you were a little squirt."

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