Dolce Vita Confidential: Fellini, Loren, Pucci, Paparazzi, and the Swinging High Life of 1950s Rome

In the years immediately following World War II, the city of Rome began a particular kind of resurgence. It not only found its footing economically, it also became the destination from which to take a peek at the sweet life, or la dolce vita. Much of the allure of this famous city grew from the media, specifically the film industry and the paparazzi, who fanatically sought resident film stars, politicians, and anyone who could add a touch of drama to the tabloid press. Levy (King of Comedy; Rat Pack Confidential) brings this vibrant time to life by focusing on, among others, Federico Fellini, Sophia Loren, Marcello Mastroianni, Roberto Rossellini, and all those in orbit around them. The author's style relates a strong journalistic ear, yet clearly Levy is a fan of tabloid gossip. The bibliography even comes with a "films watched" section, an almost definitive selection of movies that document 1950s Rome.