The Directors

This programme explores the life and career of Italian director Sergio Leone. It highlights his seminal films such as A Fistful of Dollars, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and Once Upon a Time in America. The programme examines his life and work, focusing on the influential movies that defined his career.

The programme Sergio Leone is a documentary‑style episode that centres on the Italian filmmaker of the same name. It presents an overview of his career, positioning him as a key figure in the world of cinema. In its core, the episode follows Leone’s personal and professional journey, concentrating on the movies that cemented his reputation. It showcases three of his most recognised titles – A Fistful of Dollars, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, and Once Upon a Time in America – and outlines how each contributed to his body of work. The narrative examines the impact of those films, illustrating the techniques and storytelling choices that made them stand out. By tracing the development of his style through these works, the programme gives viewers a sense of why they are often cited when discussing his influence. Finally, the episode places Leone’s achievements within the wider landscape of Italian cinema, highlighting how his contributions helped shape the industry’s evolution. It offers a concise yet comprehensive look at the life and output of a director whose movies continue to be referenced in discussions of film history.