Capri and the Movies

Sophia Loren, Brigitte Bardot, Totò... Capri's love for the silver screen

Capri and the Movies

International directors and screenwriters have always had a special place in their hearts (and films) for magically spectacular island settings for everything from commercials to blockbuster classics.

Some famous examples? How about "Stromboli" by Roberto Rossellini, filmed on the island of the same name, "Mutiny on the Bounty" set in New Zealand, Lina Wertmuller's "Travolti da un insolito destino nell'azzurro mare di agosto" - not to be confused with "Swept Away", the recent remake - filmed in Sardinia's crystalline waters, Massimo Troisi's final work, "The Postman", set on Procida, and "The Talented Mr. Ripley" filmed in part on nearby Ischia...

The island of Capri has also been a popular setting for films since the 20th century: consider the sensual beauty of Brigitte Bardot in the Casa Malaparte in J. Luc Godard's "Le Mépris" - or "Contempt" in English - or Marcello Mastroianni and Claudia Cardinale in "The Skin" by Liliana Cavani, which included scenes of Capri's famed Piazzetta.

In the 1950's, Capri progressed from being simply a to becoming an intregal part of the plot, for example in the iconic Italian comic films "Avventura a Capri" and "Bellezze a Capri".

The beloved "Emperor of Capri" by Luigi Comencini, which starred Totò, one of Naples' most famous comic actors, and "The Bay of Naples", featuring Sophia Loren and Clark Gable, only increased Capris reputation as a hot film location.

In recent seasons, here have been a number of Italian and international tv series filmed on Capri recently, most importantly "Capri", a television drama series prodoced by the Italian state television RAI which created successful three seasons and led to an increase in Italian tourism to the island.

Perhaps you recognized Capri in the recent Dolce&Gabbana perfume ad campaign, directed by Mario Testino and filmed beneath the dramatic Faraglioni at the Canzone del Mare, a famous beach club located in Marina Piccola.

If would like to see some of the most famous film locations on Capri, rent a scooter or a traditional gozzo boat to explore the island by sea!

Inspiration

Planning a quick visit to Capri and don't know how much to budget? Here are some guidelines for one or two nights.

Tips for visiting the island in late autumn and winter

When is the best time of year to visit Capri?

Are you planning a family vacation on Capri? Here are all our child-friendly tips, from beaches to restaurants.

Here are all the free public beaches on the island of Capri

Helpful tips for organising a daytrip excursion to Capri if you are on a cruise.