An extraordinary journey through the myths, masterpieces and legends of Hollywood cinema. From Keaton to Kubrick, from Welles to Coppola and Scorsese, at Giunti Odeon a series of documentaries, rich in footage and testimonials, on a century and more of American cinema: a compelling account of the greatest and most dazzling industry of dreams.

On the occasion of the presentation of the new Melania Mazzucco's book, Silence (Einaudi), Giunti Odeon presents, in a restored version, one of the first films made on the life of Dante Alighieri. Released more than a century ago (in 1922), Dante in His Life and Times was filmed entirely in Florence and is one of the longest films (92') in the history of Italian silent films. In the film, Dante is at the centre of political plots and the love affair between Segna de' Calligai and Coronella, the latter a nun who is kidnapped from the convent. The abduction triggers a series of reactions in which Guelphs and Ghibellines are the protagonists. After Dante's death in Ravenna, where he had gone to avert war with the Venetians, his son finds, thanks to a night vision, the last part of the Divine Comedy, which had been lost.

After L'architettrice, Melania Mazzucco returns to narrate an entire world through the fate of a woman in her latest novel, Silenzio. Le sette vite di Diana Karenne (Einaudi). The author will discuss her work on stage with Wlodek Goldkorn, moderated by Gabriele Ametrano, Artistic Director of Giunti Odeon.

The book:

The protagonist of this story, a foreign and enigmatic figure, arrives in Italy in 1914. Nothing she tells is true, as she is simultaneously fleeing and searching for herself. Uncertain of her goals, she dreams of being a writer, painter, or musician but ultimately becomes a film actress. Under the name Diana Karenne, she rises to fame as one of the leading stars of Italian silent cinema: the queen of silence.

In this novel, Melania Mazzucco uncovers Diana Karenne’s shadowy and multifaceted identity, pieced together through archives, libraries, and film institutes across Europe. Mazzucco recounts Karenne’s life with passion, humor, pain, and respect, showing how literature itself is the antithesis of silence.

Between 1916 and 1919, Diana was a mysterious foreigner, femme fatale, gypsy, singer, filmmaker, spy, nun, saint, countess, queen, and more. She wrote and directed her films, becoming one of the first female directors in history and later a producer. Restless and elusive, she moved across Italy’s cultural hubs, admired for her independence by women and feared by men for her unpredictability and tempestuous love affairs.

In the post-war years, the decline of the Italian film industry led her to Paris and Berlin, where she encountered exiled Russians and was forced to confront her origins. Unlike many silent film stars, her career wasn’t eclipsed by the advent of sound but by her irresistible desire to vanish and reinvent herself once more as a mystical muse and companion to a Russian poet. Nearly consigned to oblivion, Diana Karenne is revived by Mazzucco’s meticulously researched and gripping narrative, restoring her contemporary vitality.

The author:

Melania Mazzucco, an acclaimed Italian writer, holds degrees in Modern and Contemporary Italian Literature and Cinema from the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia. She worked for years as a screenwriter and has contributed to the Enciclopedia Italiana Treccani.

Her literary debut came in 1992 with the short story Seval, followed by novels such as Il bacio della Medusa (1996) and La camera di Baltus (1998), both finalists for the Premio Strega. Her 2000 novel Lei così amata earned multiple awards, including the SuperPremio Vittorini. Mazzucco won the Premio Strega in 2003 for Vita.

She has also authored radio dramas, theatrical works, and novels exploring themes like war (Limbo, 2012) and migration (Io sono con te. Storia di Brigitte, 2016). Her latest novel, Silenzio, continues her tradition of blending historical insight with profound character exploration.

At Giunti Odeon a rich selection of films and documentaries on painting, visual arts and comics in the 20th century. This is a selection of very rare titles (with many experimental and artist films) - from the Cineteca di Bologna archive - dedicated to the life and works of Alberto Burri, Umberto Boccioni, Primo Conti, Giorgio De Chirico, Antoni Gaudì, Alberto Grifi, Hugo Pratt, Gino Rossi and many others.

A tango performance on stage, followed by the presentation of Noi siamo il tango (bookabook) by Giuliano Scarpati, accompanied by Francesca Romeo. Once again, GO offers you an encounter with a completely unique flavor!

The book:

"A love story that lasts three minutes: the time of a song"—this is tango. Two people, two souls, two bodies that meet for the first time on the dance floor, coming together in an enveloping embrace. No words are needed: the leader guides, the follower listens and responds. It's non-verbal communication, it's pure magic.

This book is a comprehensive guide that takes readers on a journey through the essential steps and emotions that make tango a unique art form. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, Noi siamo il tango offers inspiration and techniques to experience the magic of tango in every movement. Complete with photos and practical tips, it helps readers refine their style and immerse themselves in the dance’s enchanting world.

Beauty and the star-system, talent and fragility, the lights of the cinema and the shadows of life: Giunti Odeon pays tribute to one of the most extraordinary divas in the history of cinema, Marilyn Monroe, with three of her most famous and iconic films, authentic masterpieces directed by as many great directors. 

Alan Friedman will present his latest book, La fine dell'Impero Americano (La nave di Teseo). On this occasion, the author will engage in a dialogue with Roberto De Ponti, the Director of Corriere Fiorentino.

The book:

This work exposes the failure of American leadership during pivotal moments in history, taking readers behind the scenes of Donald Trump's and Kamala Harris's America—a nation more divided than ever. Friedman anticipates the challenges we will face in the coming years, as the effects of the New World Disorder test our values in both America and Europe. The fate of one will determine the fate of the other—and that of the world at large.

Is this truly the end of the "American Century"? Are we heading toward a perilous and unstable new global disorder, where autocrats like Putin and Xi openly challenge Western democracies?
Friedman provides a compelling narrative that traces the rise of American dominance from its beginnings to its twilight, as despots and new authoritarian leaders, often cloaked in the guise of statesmanship, seek to fill the void left by America's waning influence.

Written with a fast-paced and passionate style, Friedman recounts the meteoric rise of an "empire" that lasted barely 80 years. He paints vivid, detailed portraits of U.S. presidents, holding them accountable for the critical mistakes of their administrations—from Franklin Delano Roosevelt to John F. Kennedy, Jimmy Carter to George W. Bush, Barack Obama to Joe Biden.

The author:

Alan Friedman, an American journalist who has chosen to live in Italy, began his career as a young collaborator in the administration of President Jimmy Carter. He has been a correspondent for the Financial Times, a reporter for the International Herald Tribune, a columnist for the Wall Street Journal, and a producer and host of numerous television programs in the UK, U.S., and Italy. In Italy, he has worked with Rai, Sky TG24, and La7. Friedman’s books include Tutto in famiglia (1988), La madre di tutti gli affari (1993), and Il bivio (1996). In 2014, Rizzoli published Ammazziamo il gattopardo, an analysis of Italy's economic, political, and social crisis and his proposals for overcoming it. Other works include My Way: Berlusconi si racconta a Friedman (2015), Questa non è l'America (2017, Newton Compton), Dieci cose da sapere sull’economia italiana prima che sia troppo tardi (2018), and Questa non è l’Italia (2019).

The Australian who reinvented the musical and sentimental genre, conquering Hollywood. Giunti Odeon pays tribute to the visionary, colourful and pop talent of Baz Luhrmann, one of the most original and controversial directors of contemporary cinema, with two of his most famous films.

A spoiled cat and his enslaved human... Get to know them better during the presentation of Natale con Sir Thomas (Newton Compton Editori) by author Federica Bosco. Joining her for the occasion is Alessandra Marilli (La vicina carina), with readings performed by none other than... Sir Thomas himself! Meow!

The book:

This year, Sir Thomas wrote his own letter to Santa—and he has a few things to say!

"Dear Santa Claus,
Well, yes, if I’ve resorted to writing to you, it means I’m at my wit’s end. No offense. And before you think that it’s normal for a four-year-old to still be writing letters, let me remind you that in human years, I’m thirty-five. If among your fans you still count people of that age asking for bikes, it speaks volumes about the mental state of humanity. Not that anything surprises me anymore, really..."

Sir Thomas is a red Maine Coon: arrogant, cynical, and extraordinarily spoiled. Through his eyes and sarcastic voice, he narrates the life of his hapless servant, Federica (often referred to as "the incompetent"). Despite her constant efforts—providing gourmet meals, inventing new games, and diligently grooming his luxurious fur—she can never quite get it right.

The author:

Federica Bosco is a celebrated writer and screenwriter with a rich repertoire of novels and self-help guides. She was a finalist for the 2012 Bancarella Prize, and her novel Pazze di me was adapted into a film directed by Fausto Brizzi.

Some of her notable works include:

• Ci vediamo un giorno di questi (2017)
• Il nostro momento imperfetto (2018)
• Non perdiamoci di vista (2019)
• Non dimenticarlo mai (2021)
• Volevamo prendere il cielo (2023)

In 2023, she also released Il mio gatto mi detesta. Il diario di Sir Thomas with Newton Compton.

Giving voice to the forgotten figures in the case of the Monster of Florence, Edoardo Orlandi and Eugenio Nocciolini present Nessuno. Voci nella storia del mostro di Firenze (Giunti), through live readings from their book. Our role is to listen and reflect on these haunting narratives.

The book:

Eight double murders, seventeen years of terror, and an investigation without end—Nessuno recounts Italy’s most infamous cold case in a way never done before. This gripping narrative gives voice to those overlooked in history: the sixteen young victims who found themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time, along with their families, friends, investigators, and journalists.

Written as a compelling blend of fiction and true crime, the book presents a harrowing and multifaceted story. We hear from little Natalino, who falls asleep in the car after a movie outing with his mother Barbara and “Uncle” Antonio, only to wake to silence. From Stefania, deeply in love with Pasquale yet uncertain about their relationship. From Horst and Jens-Uwe, whose secret love was taboo in their time.

The narrative continues through to the final murder: Jean-Michel and Nadine, a French couple unaware of the lurking predator, a "nobody" who struck when couples were most vulnerable—while they loved each other.

Following the success of their podcast Nessuno, Nocciolini and Orlandi revisit the chilling saga of the Monster of Florence with the precision of investigative journalism and the intensity of a thriller.

The authors:

• Eugenio Nocciolini (b. 1988, Florence): A playwright, theater teacher, and podcast creator based in Calenzano (FI). He has produced podcasts like Scarafaggi – Across The Beatles and Jack! La storia di Jack lo Squartatore with CasoZero Media.
• Edoardo Orlandi (b. 1988, Viareggio): A criminal lawyer and criminologist living between Prato and Florence. He is also the co-creator of the podcast L’isola che non c’era: la favola nera del Forteto with Marco Maisano.

At Giunti Odeon a selection of American classics from the 1980s! Colourful, crazy, experimental, joyful and dark at the same time: the films of that decade are the kaleidoscope of a renewed and euphoric society, but not without its shadows. Here then are the films of masters such as Robert Zemeckis, David Cronenberg, Terry Gilliam, Martin Scorsese and many other cult films to see and see again!

The third edition of the Paperwalls Awards is finally happening in person!

Ready to celebrate the books that made us laugh, cry, think, and debate? The Paperwalls Awards is a special moment to look back on the highlights and honor the most beloved reads of the year as chosen by the community.

Joining us will be Megi Bulla, Valentina Ghetti, Martina Levato, and Carmelo Romano.

The event will also be available to stream on TikTok at @pw.ilpostodeilibri.

Get ready to immerse yourselves in the magic of Oceania 2 (Giunti) with a special 

Join us on December 7th at 3:00 PM for a fun-filled event featuring a reading of Moana 2 and a drawing workshop led by a talented Disney artist.

Bring your creativity, unleash your pencils and markers, and don't forget to collect your participation certificate at the end!

Show your certificate at the checkout to enjoy a discount on the evening screening of Moana 2!

Free entry, no reservation needed—just bring your Disney spirit! We can't wait to see you there! 

Children... let's read together at GO!

Every Sunday, from 10:00 to 11:00 and from 11:00 to 12:00, our readers will take you through the pages of wonderful books, right under the stage at GO! Soft pillows and plenty of stories await you to end the week beautifully!

Each child who participates will receive a card where they can collect a sticker for each reading. Collect all 5 stickers on the card, and you'll receive a complimentary book (chosen from a selection of curated collections).

Free admission and no reservation required. Readings will be carried out only when the necessary attendance is reached.

In 1923, Walt and Roy Disney began an adventure that would change the history of cinema forever. Since then, the films made by Disney have enchanted several generations, amazing us each time with their timeless and ageless stories. Today, a century later, Giunti Odeon continues to celebrate this great dream factory by proposing a selection of great Disney classics, with the most famous films, suitable for young and old, to be enjoyed all together and continue to dream... 

Three films released in recent years that have entered the collective imagination of our time. Winners of numerous Oscars, directed by great directors and starring famous actors, these three films are now to be regarded as true new cinema classics.

Encounter 4 - The cinema beyond cinema

From the never realised project on Napoleon to A Clockwork Orange (1971), Kubrick pushes the absolute ambiguity of images: the initial sense is turned upside down, also thanks to the manipulation of time. The expressive use of the zoom is the key to this style, as seen in Barry Lyndon (1975), a total film, which through the symbolic complexity of its framing and editing exhibits links with literature, theatre, painting, music, and in which meaning is emptied in favour of the visible.

Giunti Odeon celebrates women's cinema, proposing three cult films, from the present, with women as absolute protagonists. Tenacious and passionate, torn between difficult choices and passionate loves, those told in these three films are the women who stop at nothing and who are not afraid to face the pitfalls of life, without giving up their own identity.

At Christmas it's time for classics! At Giunti Odeon three cult films from the history of cinema that have marked the imagery and atmosphere of the Christmas holidays, for young and old. 

In 1923, Walt and Roy Disney began an adventure that would change the history of cinema forever. Since then, the films made by Disney have enchanted several generations, amazing us each time with their timeless and ageless stories. Today, a century later, Giunti Odeon continues to celebrate this great dream factory by proposing a selection of great Disney classics, with the most famous films, suitable for young and old, to be enjoyed all together and continue to dream... 

Encounter 5 - Eyes Open Closed

The modern character of Kubrick's cinema can also be found, renewed, in his last films: The Shining (1981), a variation on horror consisting of spatial and temporal labyrinths, in which it is the architecture (of the mind) that shapes the narrative; Full Metal Jacket (1987) in which war is shown as an abstract and symbolic space-time; Eyes Wide Shut (1999), an extraordinary parable on the deceptive seductions of the 20th century and a film-heading on cinema as ‘grand illusion’.

Session 1 - From the Beginning to the English Period

The search for truth, the sense of time, space as a cage, the work on endings, the tendency to use literary sources, the plurality of the gaze, etc. After an initial brief overview of Hitchcock's cinema, the path starts with his first films, made in England, starting with The Lodger (1926), the first film in which he ‘discovers’ the link between image and perception and between emotion and visual surprise. We then move on to The Island of Sin (1929) in which the very important theme of guilt appears for the first time, up to The 39 Club (1935) in which verisimilitude takes second place to make room for the visual power of the images.

Encounter 2 - The Great Turning Point

When he arrived in America, Hitchcock found himself in a different context, but he immediately succeeded in creating the perfect balance between authorship and the Studio-system: thanks to the detective story as a genre but also as a world-view, he broke the Hollywood principle of the illusion of reality. In Rebecca the First Wife (1940) he experiments with the importance of obsession in narrative construction. In The Suspect (1941), the ambiguity of the staging moves on from the distorted subjective and the happy ending that does not entirely dissolve the situation. In I Will Save You (1945) dreams acquire a plastic reality thanks to the recovery of avant-garde effects. In Rope (1948) the use of the piano-sequence experiments with the unity of place in the unity of time.

Encounter 3 - Cinema in Films

From the 1950s Hitchcock's cinema became increasingly meta-cinematic, with the focus shifting more and more towards the unravelling of formal mechanisms. In Stage Fright (1950) the principle of the narrator's omniscience is overturned. Rear Window (1954) is a multi-layered film: genre film, Hitchcock film, film about cinema and the act of watching. In To Catch a Thief (1955) the visually saturated images already tend towards abstraction.

Encounter 4 - Adventure and the Individual

The second half of the 1950s is for Hitchcock the one of the challenge with himself through three (im)possible films: in the remake of The Man Who Knew Too Much (1956) he fine-tunes the mechanisms of suspense and surprise (in the scene of the eardrum blowing); in Vertigo (1958) he pushes on narrative forms as (distorted) geometries of the gaze; in North by Northwest (1959) the plot is a gigantic, demented pretext and the use of images is designed for effect and not verisimilitude.