Giulietta Massina
Giulietta Massina found world wide success after her performance in La Strada, also directed by Fellini. Massina was the director's wife and muse until his death. For her role in Nights of Cabiria Massina won the Best Actress award at Cannes Film Festival in 1957. Massina is known for playing naive characters that deal with incredibly harsh circumstances, and this film is no exception. Miss Massina is often referred to as "the female Chaplin" because of her unique clowning abilities and how she is able to use her body to convey character.
Francois Perier
Francois Perier plays Oscar in Nights of Cabiria. A character who manipulates Maria into marrying him, only to destroy her by admitting that he was going to kill her just before stealing her life savings. Mr. Perier had a long career lasting from 1938-1996. During this time he appeared in 110 films and television shows while also being a prominent stage presence in the French theatre.
Amedeo Nazzari
Nazarri became a prominent film star during the Italian Fascit-Era, but his popularity carried over after the regime fell. In this film, Nazzari plays a version of himself as Lazzari, his character is also a famous movie star. Nazzari was often considered to Errol Flynn of Italian cinema.
Franca Marzi
Franca Marzi plays Maria's friend, neighbor and fellow prostitute in Nights of Cabiria. Miss Marzi made her film debut in 1946 and appeared in 80 films between then and 1977. For her potrayal of Wanda in this film, Miss Marzi was awarded the Silver Ribbon for Best Supporting Actress.
