By Jaz Hook
There’s Still Tomorrow is quickly becoming an important film of our time after winning Best Film at the 2024 Italian Golden Globes and becoming the country’s highest-grossing film of 2023.
This film begins with a backhand.
A clear theme throughout is that women are only acceptable if they are quiet and do what they are told. It seems if they don’t adhere to this sexist status quo, men may meet them with violence.
That is the case for main character Delia, wife and mother of two boys and one daughter. She is stuck in a marriage of domestic violence and concerned for not only her future but that of her daughter.
Director Paola Cortellesi stars as Delia and although this is her directorial debut, this is not her first role. Having starred in 20 films, she is also a producer, screen director and singer. Cortellesi is clearly a veteran of the film industry.
There’s Still Tomorrow pays homage to the neo-realism of 1940s Italy. Post World War II, filmmakers shifted their focus to the social issues of the time including economy and politics. This was also known as the Italian Spring.
Set in a time that was so pivotal for women in Italy, it conjures important conversations about gender-based violence, the patriarchy, breaking the cycle and liberation.
There’s Still Tomorrow will be showing at Palace Cinemas across Australia as part of the ST. Ali Italian Film Festival until October 16.
Featured image: Paola Cortellesi stars as Delia and directs There’s Still Tomorrow. Photo: YouTube
