by Sophie Renhudt
Paola Cortellesi’s directorial debut, “C’è ancora domani” (There’s Still Tomorrow), is making waves in Italy’s film industry, achieving record-breaking numbers at the box office since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The black and white film premiered last month at the Rome Film Festival, where it not only captivated audiences but also secured three prestigious awards, including the coveted audience award.
In the three weeks since its release in Italian cinemas, “C’è ancora domani” has garnered the attention of over 1.8 million viewers, raking in an impressive nearly €13 million in box office revenue. This remarkable success marks a significant milestone, solidifying its position as the highest-grossing Italian film during the challenging times of the pandemic.
In a neorealist-style narrative, the film delves into the tumultuous domestic life of an oppressed housewife in post-war Rome, tackling themes of patriarchy and women’s empowerment.
At the heart of the story is Paola Cortellesi, 49, who takes on the role of Delia, a woman grappling with abuse from her domineering and violent husband, Ivano, portrayed by Valerio Mastandrea. Amidst caring for their three children and her ailing father-in-law, Delia’s resilience is tested in the face of adversity.
The narrative takes an unexpected turn as Delia aspires for a brighter future for her daughter, Marcella, played by Romana Maggiora Vergano, who finds herself betrothed to the middle-class Giulio, portrayed by Francesco Centorame.
However, the seemingly ordinary lives are disrupted by the arrival of a mysterious letter, unveiling a series of events that will redefine the characters’ destinies.
