Nights of Cabiria

Main Plot

"Nights of Cabiria," directed by Federico Fellini, follows the life of Cabiria, a resilient and optimistic woman living in Rome. Despite her profession as a prostitute, Cabiria dreams of finding true love and escaping her difficult circumstances. Throughout the film, she encounters a series of men and experiences that test her faith in humanity. Her journey is marked by moments of hope, betrayal, and self-discovery. Cabiria's unwavering spirit and quest for happiness drive the narrative, highlighting themes of resilience and the search for genuine connection in a world that often seems indifferent. The film paints a poignant portrait of a woman striving to maintain her dignity and optimism against the odds.

Characters

• Giulietta Masina plays Cabiria, a resilient and naive prostitute who dreams of love and a better life, navigating a series of heartbreaks and betrayals.
• François Périer plays Oscar D'Onofrio, a charming man who deceives Cabiria, leading her to believe in love before ultimately betraying her and stealing her savings.
• Franca Marzi plays Wanda, Cabiria's loyal friend and fellow prostitute, who provides emotional support and companionship throughout Cabiria's tumultuous journey.

Ending Explained

In the concluding scenes of Federico Fellini's "Nights of Cabiria," the protagonist, Cabiria, a resilient and hopeful prostitute, faces a devastating betrayal. After meeting and falling in love with a man named Oscar, who promises her a new life, Cabiria sells her house and belongings to start afresh with him. However, during a trip to the countryside, Oscar reveals his true intentions. He leads her to a secluded area, intending to rob her of all her money and leave her behind. Heartbroken and shattered by the betrayal, Cabiria contemplates suicide but ultimately decides against it. The film ends on a poignant yet hopeful note. As Cabiria walks alone, devastated by the betrayal, she encounters a group of young people singing and dancing. Despite her sorrow, she begins to smile through her tears, suggesting an enduring resilience and an undying hope for a better future. This final scene encapsulates Cabiria's indomitable spirit and her ability to find a glimmer of hope even in the darkest moments of her life.