Which actor is often described as a "poster boy" for Italian Neo-Realism?

The title of "poster boy" for Italian Neo-Realism is most closely associated with Marcello Mastroianni due to his significant contributions to the movement and representation of its themes in popular cinema. Mastroianni became an iconic figure of Italian cinema, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s, epitomizing the essence of characters that reflect the struggles and realities of everyday life, which is a hallmark of Neo-Realism.

His roles in films directed by important figures in the Neo-Realist movement, such as Federico Fellini, helped to establish him as a quintessential actor of that era. These films often explored themes of social issues, human suffering, and the complexities of modern life in post-war Italy, all conveyed through Mastroianni’s performances. His ability to evoke deep emotional resonance while often appearing as an everyman made him a defining representation of the movement’s cinematic ideals.

While Giulietta Masina was also a notable actress associated with Italian cinema and featured prominently in Neo-Realist films, particularly those directed by her husband, Federico Fellini, her image does not embody the movement in the same way Mastroianni's does. Vittorio De Sica, although a crucial figure in