Teresa (1951)

Interesting facts

• Filmed in: New York City
• Awards: 0 · Nominations: 1

Teresa is a 1951 American romantic war drama film directed by Fred Zinnemann for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. It stars Pier Angeli in her English-language debut and John Ericson in his film debut. Patricia Collinge, Peggy Ann Garner, Ralph Meeker and Rod Steiger play supporting roles.

Production

The idea for the story began in 1947 when Loew's International head Arthur Loew Jr. showed director Fred Zinnemann an area of dilapidated army barracks on Long Island where many World War II veterans were living with their families. Loew felt that a worthwhile film could be produced that featured the struggles of veterans to adapt to civilian life.

Zinnemann attempted to interest Marlon Brando, star of his 1950 film The Men, to play the male lead role. Montgomery Clift, star of Zinnemann's 1948 film The Search, was also considered and helped by directing screen tests of actresses in Italy. In March 1950, newcomer Robert Wagner was rumored as the top choice for the role.

Stern discovered Pier Angeli while in Italy to scout locations and actors in advance of production. Lamberto Maggiorani, star of the 1948 Italian film Bicycle Thieves, was sought for the role of Teresa's brother but did not sign.

Location filming in Italy began in April 1950 and lasted for three months. Battle scenes were filmed in authentic locations where the Allies had fought the Gothic Line at Livergnano. The town of Scascoli was selected for village scenes, but as it had been rebuilt since the war, its streets and buildings were prepared to resemble those of a battle-ravaged town.

The New York scenes were filmed on location in Manhattan, including Central Park, the actual maternity ward of Bellevue Hospital and a local studio.

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