Which film movement is characterized by on-location shooting and non-professional actors?

• A. German Expressionism
• B. Italian Neorealism
• C. French New Wave
• D. Soviet Montage

Answer: (B)

On-location shooting with non-professional actors is a defining feature of Italian Neorealism. After World War II, filmmakers in Italy moved away from studio fantasy toward films that depicted everyday life in real streets and neighborhoods, often using people who weren’t professional actors. This approach creates a palpable sense of immediacy and social realism, highlighting ordinary people's struggles and resilience.

German Expressionism, by contrast, is known for stylized, artificial sets and exaggerated visuals that convey inner psychology rather than everyday life. French New Wave experiments with form and narration, though it sometimes uses real locations and non-professional actors, centers on breaking cinematic conventions. Soviet Montage focuses on editing to shape meaning and rhythm, rather than on-location realism or non-professional casting.