Beautiful (1951)

In the heart of Rome's sprawling slums, dwells Maddalena Cecconi, a tenacious, working-class mother fueled by a single, potent dream - to launch her cherubic five-year-old daughter, Maria, headfirst into the glittering realm of cinema. When renowned director Blasetti announces a casting call in the famed Cinecittà studios, seeking Rome's most exquisite child, Maddalena seizes this golden opportunity, plunging herself and Maria into a world far removed from their humble existence. With her unwavering determination to see Maria shine brighter than the ambitious throng of young contestants, Maddalena falls prey to a colourful cavalcade of savvy professionals, from cunning teachers to adept hairdressers, who all pledge her guaranteed success - for a steep price. As the family's meagre savings are systematically drained in this ruthless pursuit of stardom, Maddalena finds herself caught in a desperate dance between her aspirations and her husband's pleas to secure their immediate needs, such as rent. The sacrifices she is willing to make for Maria's elusive dreams threaten to consume not just their finances, but their lives. Yet, Maddalena remains undeterred, fuelled by the tantalizing question - could there truly be a pot of gold awaiting her beloved daughter at the end of this glimmering cinematic rainbow? Bellissima explores this poignant journey, painting a stirring portrait of a mother's love, sacrifice and the alluring, yet perilous world of showbiz.

Beautiful is a drama movie featuring Anna Magnani.

Beautiful is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Plex and Plex Player.

It is also possible to buy Beautiful on Amazon Video.