Dino De Laurentiis

Dino De Laurentiis was an Italian (later naturalized American) film producer known for bringing Italian cinema to the international scene. He produced or co-produced over 500 films, including art house fare like Fellini's 'La Strada' and popular blockbusters.

Miscellaneous Crew | Producer | Production Manager

August 8, 1919

November 11, 2010

91

Dino De Laurentiis was a renowned Italian film producer with an extensive filmography and significant contributions to the industry. He is best known for producing hits like “Hannibal,” “La Strada,” “Barbarella,” “Silence of the Lambs,” “King Kong,” and “Red Dragon,” and collaborating with iconic directors such as Federico Fellini and Ridley Scott. De Laurentiis played a crucial role in bringing Italian cinema to the international stage, producing or co-producing over 500 films, 38 of which were nominated for Academy Awards.

At the age of 17, De Laurentiis left home to attend film school, supporting himself through various jobs in the film industry. By his 20th birthday, he had already produced a film. After serving in the Italian army during World War II, he became an independent producer, creating elaborately financed blockbusters with international backing.

De Laurentiis was also involved in other projects and achievements, such as producing the historical epic “Waterloo” and the Italian Mafia-based film “The Valachi Papers.” He pioneered the early use of product placement in films, even developing his own product placement agency, DD Entertainment. Additionally, he was involved in the food industry, owning a vineyard and founding the Academia Barilla, a culinary school and research center.