Seen as one of the first cinematic sex symbols, Sophia Loren's charisma and voluptuous figure attracted many admirers. Yet her life away from the cameras may surprise some--she was married to Carlo Ponti, film producer, throughout her career and until his recent death. She also struggled to become a mother and considered her two children her greatest accomplishment. Loren came from impoverished roots to become possibly the greatest Italian actress of her time. Her many films included Houseboat; Two Women, for which she won an Academy Award; The Fall of the Roman Empire; and The Millionairess. She also loved to sing, adding to her sex appeal with her seductive voice. Sophia Loren: A Life in Pictures illustrates the variety and contrasts in Loren's private and public persona, with wonderful pictures and an incisive biography.