Classic Italian drama co-written and directed by Federico Fellini. The film follows Gelsomina (Giulietta Masina), a young girl who is sold by her impoverished mother to a travelling performer named Zampano (Anthony Quinn) in exchange for some food. With his act involving breaking a metal chain wrapped around his chest, Zampano attempts to incorporate Gelsomina into his routine by teaching her to perform a drum roll as part of his introduction. However, when the pair join up with a small travelling circus, fellow performer Il Matto (Richard Basehart) soon questions the way Zampano treats Gelsomina, leaving her facing a number of tough choices as she contemplates her future. The cast also includes Aldo Silvani, Marcella Rovere and Livia Venturini.