“There’s Still Tomorrow”: a phenomenon in Italian cinema

Greta Gerwig’s Barbie may be the most financially successful film ever produced by a female filmmaker and the highest-grossing movie of 2023. 

But it was thrashed at the box office in Italy by another movie made by a female talking directly about the female experience.

Paola Cortellesi’s Breakthrough

At 50, Paola Cortellesi, an accomplished actress, writer, and singer, has achieved unprecedented success with her film “There’s Still Tomorrow” (C’è Ancora Domani). Released across Europe, including the UK, the film has captivated audiences, surpassing even iconic titles like Barbie and Oppenheimer in Italy.

Unforeseen Success

Cortellesi expresses astonishment at the overwhelming response to the film, emphasizing the unexpected wave of participation and affection from audiences. Despite her extensive experience in the industry, the film’s unparalleled success continues to amaze her.

Empowering Women’s Stories

The film’s resonance stems partly from its portrayal of Delia, a character enduring violent abuse from her husband. 

Set in post-war Rome in 1946, the narrative intertwines Delia’s struggles with the historic backdrop of Italian women gaining the right to vote. This portrayal strikes a chord with contemporary Italian audiences grappling with issues of domestic violence.

Relevance to Contemporary Issues

“There’s Still Tomorrow” sheds light on the grim reality of femicide in Italy, where statistics reveal a disturbingly high number of women murdered, often by their partners or children. 

The film’s release coincided with a national outcry over the killing of a young university student, Giulia Cecchettin, highlighting the urgency of addressing gender-based violence.

Conclusion

Cortellesi’s directorial debut transcends mere cinematic achievement; it serves as a poignant commentary on societal issues, amplifying the voices of women and shedding light on the enduring struggles they face.

“There’s Still Tomorrow” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in sparking meaningful conversations and advocating for change.