Fellini classic lasts test of time

Fellini’s La Strada (Optimum) remains as enjoyable to watch now as on its original release, and essential viewing for any cinema lover.

Anthony Quinn is Zampano, a brutish circus strongman who buys innocent Gelsomina (a striking performance by Giulietta Masina, Fellini’s wife) and takes her with him on a travelling circus.

When high-wire artist Richard Basehart arrives on the scene, Zampano reacts in the only way he knows.

La Strada started Hollywood’s romance with Fellini’s innovative style and won Best Oscar, the first of four by the director.

Extras include a 52-minute documentary on Fellini’s wife Masina, and scene-specific commentary commentary by Fellini writer Christopher Wiegand.