David Downton’s Sketchbook Sophia Loren’s swaying walk—head held high, neck extended—is one of the most hypnotic in cinema. A sex symbol with innate dignity and an instinct for fun, she outgrew her beauty-pageant beginnings to become an Oscar winner and a model of regal stardom. Italy’s “diva popolana” turned 90 on September 20. By David Downton September 21, 2024