The Italian (1915) and the Representation of Italian Immigrants in Silent American Cinema

This chapter focuses on The Italian (1915) produced by Thomas Ince and directed by Reginald Barker. It analyzes the film within the context of silent American cinema’s depiction of Italian immigration. In contrast to the generally stereotypical view of Italians in early silent American cinema, The Italian offers a more complex and humanized portrayal of the Italian immigrant. While some stereotypes are still present, the film realistically depicts class differences between Italian immigrants and dominant members of the US society and invites a more sympathetic viewpoint. The film seeks to appeal to a middle-class audience. It reflects on the contradictory status of Italian culture within the US society by not only depicting the reality of Italian immigration but also including the picturesque portrayal of Italy, familiar to an educated audience.