Italian actor Paola Cortellesi has made a remarkable transition from comedy to directing with her debut feature film, 'There's Still Tomorrow.' The black-and-white movie, set in post-World War II Italy, tells the story of an ordinary woman trapped in a toxic marriage, resonating deeply with audiences.
Despite initial doubts about the film's appeal due to its monochrome cinematography and old-fashioned storyline, 'There's Still Tomorrow' exceeded all expectations. The on-screen chemistry between Cortellesi's character, Delia, and her abusive husband Ivano, played by Valerio Mastandrea, struck a chord with viewers.
The film's portrayal of various forms of abuse, including physical, verbal, psychological, and financial, shed light on the complexities of toxic relationships. Cortellesi's depiction of how abusers isolate their victims to further degrade them struck a poignant note with modern audiences.
One of the key reasons for the movie's success, according to Cortellesi, is its timeless relevance. The dynamics of abuse and the challenges faced by victims remain consistent even after nearly 80 years, making the story universally relatable.
Interacting with audiences after screenings, Cortellesi found immense satisfaction in hearing how the film had touched viewers personally. Many shared their own experiences of abuse and how they saw themselves reflected in Delia's story.
As a mother herself, Cortellesi emphasized the importance of educating children about women's rights. She recounted a touching moment with her daughter, who was astonished to learn about the historical lack of rights for women and the ongoing fight for gender equality.
Bringing 'There's Still Tomorrow' to international audiences, Cortellesi has discovered varying perspectives on women's rights worldwide. She expressed hope in witnessing young girls inspired to embrace their freedom and advocate for the rights of themselves and others.
