Synopsis

In 1950s Italy, unemployed fisherman Mario Ruoppolo becomes the local postman, with the exiled Chilean poet Pablo Neruda as his only regular customer. Their friendship introduces Mario to poetry, metaphor and politics. Inspired by Neruda's words, Mario finds the confidence to pursue Beatrice, the woman he loves, while discovering a larger world beyond his quiet island village.

Factoids & Trivia

• The film was adapted from Antonio Skarmeta's 1985 novel Ardiente paciencia. The filmmakers moved the story from contemporary Chile to 1950s Italy and reshaped its central character for Massimo Troisi.

• Filming took place primarily on the island of Procida in the Gulf of Naples, with additional scenes shot on Salina in the Aeolian Islands. The picturesque fishing harbor of Corricella appears prominently in the film.

• Troisi was suffering from serious heart problems during production and postponed surgery to finish the movie. He died of a heart attack on June 4, 1994, one day after principal photography ended.

• Because of Troisi's fragile health, the production schedule was built around his limited ability to work. A body double handled many bicycle-riding shots and scenes filmed from behind, while Troisi recorded his dialogue early in production.

• The film was released after Troisi's death and became his final screen performance. Its emotional reception was closely connected to the sense that the story also served as an unintended farewell.

• Luis Bacalov's score won the Academy Award for Best Original Dramatic Score at the 1996 ceremony. The film also received nominations for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor and Best Adapted Screenplay.

• The film's American release used the title The Postman (Il Postino), while Il postino was the original Italian title.