Anna and her sisters: Anna Magnani as an icon in Italy, France and Argentina

Abstract

This article aims to examine some of the peculiarities of Anna Magnani as an icon and to situate it in a trans-national dimension, mainly focusing on its reception in France and Argentina. In particular, I will highlight the traits connecting the figure of Magnani with those of Édith Piaf and Tita Merello, who in the post-war period display traits similar to those of the Italian actress. Through the comparative analysis of film frames, songs, articles and photographs taken from the press, I will identify some features common to these three icons who dominated the star system immediately after the war. I will show how these figures invented a new form of female diva and an anti-spectacular stardom which moved within an autonomous and eccentric environment when compared to contemporary film production.