The Famous Actress Cicala Formica (1920): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1920, The Famous Actress Cicala Formica is a notable film directed by Lucio D'Ambra.

What it’s about. The film tells in a humorous way of the artistic aspirations of a young and bourgeoisie fraulein who wants to become a famous actress, the most important diva of all times, although her family , especially her father, are unhappy with her artistic dreams. But thanks to her tenacity, as well as the collaboration of some servants and members of her family (they help her rehearse her roles which are taken from Roman Empire times), the young fraulein finally gets to star in a film. But the premiere will be a disaster because due to the inexperience of the projectionist, the actors in the picture are all rapidly moving backwards, causing general laughter in the audience and spelling the end of the glorious but brief cinematic career of our heroine.

Who’s in it. The Famous Actress Cicala Formica stars Lia Formia.

How it landed. With an audience score of 5.0/10, The Famous Actress Cicala Formica has proved divisive with audiences.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Famous Actress Cicala Formica page.