''Island in the Sky'', 1953 - art by Luigi Martinati
by Movie World Posters
Title
''Island in the Sky'', 1953 - art by Luigi Martinati
Artist
Movie World Posters
Medium
Mixed Media - Vintage Movie Posters
Description
A vintage Italian movie poster reprint of ''Island in the Sky'', a 1953 war film directed by William A. Wellman. This film is notable for its portrayal of a harrowing real-life rescue mission during World War II. It stars John Wayne in the lead role and features a supporting cast including Lloyd Nolan, Walter Abel, and James Arness.
The movie is based on the true story of a U.S. Army Air Forces transport plane, a C-47, that crashes in the remote wilderness of Labrador, Canada, during a storm. John Wayne plays the character of Captain Dooley, the pilot of the aircraft. After the crash, the crew and passengers are left stranded in the harsh and unforgiving Arctic conditions.
"Island in the Sky" primarily focuses on the survival efforts of the crash survivors as they face extreme cold, limited supplies, and the challenges of maintaining hope and teamwork while awaiting rescue. It also highlights the tireless efforts of the search and rescue teams working to locate the downed plane in the vast, snowy wilderness.
The film is known for its realistic portrayal of the struggles and camaraderie among the survivors and the dedication of those involved in the rescue mission. John Wayne's performance as Captain Dooley is considered one of his memorable roles, showcasing his leadership and resilience in the face of adversity.
"Island in the Sky" stands out as a tribute to the bravery and determination of the men and women who served in the military during World War II and the courage required to survive in the most challenging circumstances.
While not as well-known as some of John Wayne's other films, "Island in the Sky" remains a significant entry in his filmography and is appreciated for its portrayal of real-life heroism and the human spirit's ability to endure in the most dire situations.
About the artist:
Luigi Martinati (1893-1983), born in Florence, Italy, on Dec. 31, 1893, was a significant Italian illustrator and painter. He spent most of his career creating artwork for film posters.
While growing up in Florence, he attended the Academy of Fine Arts, then moved to Rome in 1911 when he was 18. There, he worked as an apprentice for film poster artist Federico Ballester (1868-1926), the father of Anselmo Ballester, who also became a poster artist.
Between 1923 and 1941, he devoted himself to advertising illustration. He designed posters of various subjects and themes, from commercial advertising billboards to tourist signs to political posters to significant celebratory events.
He later became the director of IGAP (Impresa Generale Affissioni PubblicitĂ ), a leading advertising agency in Rome. In that role, he began collaborating with various film companies, primarily Warner Brothers studios. Soon after World War II, the advertising sector became dedicated exclusively to movie illustrations.
In the mid-1940s, he teamed up with two other painters of Italian film posters, Anselmo Ballester and Alfredo Capitani. Together, they founded BCM studio (using letters from their surnames) and dedicated their efforts exclusively to producing film posters.
Martinati's images typically invoked robust realism. His style was characterized by a foreground depicting a large portrait with a minor scene in the background. He also stands out for his technique, which focused on the strength of the subjects without lingering on details and particulars. The heroes of Martinati posters are realistic and believable, with few exaggerated expressions or poses.
In 1959, he cut back on his partnership with Warner Brothers and other film production and distribution companies. By 1967, he discontinued his successful career as a film poster artist to work primarily as an easel painter.
He died in Rome in 1983 at the age of 90.
To see some of his other posters, enter his last name in the search.
Uploaded
May 27th, 2021
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