There’s Still Tomorrow dir. Paola Cortellesi

There’s Still Tomorrow dir. Paola Cortellesi

“There’s Still Tomorrow” / dir. Paola Cortellesi / feature film / 2023 / 118 min. / Italy

“There’s Still Tomorrow” is the directorial debut of comedian and actress Paola Cortellesi, who also stars in the leading role. Every woman can relate to the protagonist, Delia, as we too handle the impossible daily tasks—managing the home and work, caring for children and elderly family members, soothing a grumpy husband or a teenage daughter’s emotions. Delia works tirelessly, only to receive more complaints, criticisms, and sulks in return. She is also convinced that her daughter, who is preparing for marriage, is destined for a similar fate. However, one day she receives a letter that sparks her rebellion and leads her to undertake surprisingly bold actions that no one would expect from a housewife.

“There’s Still Tomorrow” exudes a spirit of change, belief in the strength of women, and female solidarity. It is also an ode to the beautiful yet tumultuous relationships between mothers and daughters. Set in post-crisis Rome, the film pays homage to neorealist traditions but integrates contemporary themes. It speaks of a collective awakening, of women who dared to confront the legacy of violence. With its blend of laughter and tears, directly addressing painful experiences while remaining light as a Roman holiday, Cortellesi’s film demonstrates that the future is—literally—in our hands. Did we secure anything for ourselves since our grandmothers’ time? Yes, and we should hold onto it tightly, says the director.