Robert De Niro celebrates 50th anniversary of Bertolucci’s ‘Novecento’ in Rome

On July 13, 2026, Robert De Niro appeared at Piazza San Cosimato in Rome’s Trastevere district for a free open‑air screening of the newly restored version of Bernardo Bertolucci’s 1976 film Novecento (1900). The event, organized by the Fondazione Piccolo America as part of its “Il Cinema in Piazza” series, marked the film’s 50th anniversary and drew a large, enthusiastic crowd. De Niro recalled his experience on set, describing Bertolucci as “a poet” and saying he was “proud to have acted in Novecento.” He also noted the film’s focus on class conflict and the rise of fascism.

The screening was followed by a conversation with writer Antonio Monda and foundation president Valerio Carocci. Carocci used the platform to voice concerns about protecting Rome’s cultural spaces, stating, “I am scared, I ask the city for help,” and urging authorities to address perceived pressures on cultural initiatives. The evening combined cinematic celebration with a call for civic support of the arts.