La Strada (1954)
Kernel Score: 89% · 1,152 ratings · Rated NR
Genres: Drama
Released: 1954-09-23
Runtime: 115 minutes
Where to watch La Strada
- Stream: HBO Max
- Free with ads: Kanopy
- Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
- Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
When Gelsomina, a naïve young woman, is purchased from her impoverished mother by brutish circus strongman Zampanò to be his wife and partner, she loyally endures her husband's coldness and abuse as they travel the Italian countryside performing together. Soon Zampanò must deal with his jealousy and conflicted feelings about Gelsomina when she finds a kindred spirit in Il Matto, the carefree circus fool, and contemplates leaving Zampanò.
La Strada parents' guide: ages 13+
Parents need to know that this classic drama depicts an abusive relationship between a naive young woman and a brutish circus strongman.
- Violence & scariness: Moderate — Depicts a husband's coldness and physical abuse toward his wife throughout the story.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official NR rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
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- La Dolce Vita (1960) — 89%
- Chasing Mavericks (2012) — 77%
- Scarecrow (1973) — 80%
Director
Cast
- Giulietta Masina as Gelsomina
- Anthony Quinn as Zampanò
- Richard Basehart as Il 'Matto'
- Aldo Silvani as Il Signor Giraffa
- Marcella Rovere as La Vedova
- Livia Venturini as La Suorina
- Pietro Ceccarelli as Innkeeper (uncredited)
- Giovanna Galli as Prostitute at the Inn (uncredited)
- Gustavo Giorgi as (uncredited)
- Yami Kamadeva as Prostitute (uncredited)
La Strada FAQ
Is La Strada good?
La Strada has an 89% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 1,152 audience ratings.
Where can I watch La Strada?
In the US you can stream La Strada on HBO Max, watch it free with ads on Kanopy and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.
Is La Strada OK for kids?
La Strada is rated NR. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 13+. Parents need to know that this classic drama depicts an abusive relationship between a naive young woman and a brutish circus strongman.
What movies are like La Strada?
If you liked La Strada, try The Greatest Showman, Brute Force, Rebel Without a Cause and The Hurricane.