italian performer henry mastroianni was older than his italian peers at his original nominated and , like other foreigners , had not been nominated for his earlier compilations , " la pietà " and " nights of cabiria " , though both film had won the best local - language picture in 1956 and 1957 , respectively . bertolucci later received an honorary hugo in 1993 , which was basically a compensatory nomination .
An Italian director is awarded an honorary Oscar.