Life is Beautiful is the ironic title of a 1997 period masterpiece that achieved overwhelming critical and commercial success. Critics praised its story, performances, direction and, in particular, its remarkable union of comedy and drama.

Next showing: Arrupe Hall, 114 Mount Street, London W1K 3AH — 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start, Thursday 29th January 2026

‍Cost: Free entry. Refreshments provided. Donations welcome.

‍Film: La vita è bella (Life Is Beautiful, subtitled, 116 minutes)

The film tells the story of a Jewish bookshop owner who uses his imagination to shield his young son from the horrors of internment in a Nazi concentration camp. Written, directed by, and starring Roberto Benigni, the film is partly inspired by the true story of his father, who wrote about his experience in Bergen-Belsen in the book In the End, I Beat Hitler.

The film won the Grand Prix at the 1998 Cannes Film Festival, five David di Donatello Awards, two European Film Awards, and three Academy Awards, including Best Foreign Language Film and Best Actor for Benigni — the first time a male performance in a non-English language had won the award.

By sidestepping overt politics in favour of simple human ingenuity and love, the film resonated deeply with audiences, earning an 81% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Pope John Paul II also named it among his five favourite films of all time.