There’s Still Tomorrow

There’s Still Tomorrow’s title is like the whole film: it brings hope. It has its class in its elegant, black-and-white aesthetics and a coherent plot. This Italian gem immediately grasps the audience with its first tracking shot, somewhat evoking Woody Allen’s and Italian neorealists’ stylistics. Everything here is in the right place: it’s a debut that young filmmakers dream of in school. Not surprisingly, Paola Cortellesi’s first film (she’s also a lead) has become a huge box office success in Italy, even beating Life is Beautiful (1997), by Roberto Benigni. 

We follow Delia, a middle-aged wife and a mother of three, whose life is far from ideal. Every day she has to put up with the persistent violence of her abusive husband. Eventually, she decides to rebel. It’s too late for her, but she still has a chance to fight for her daughter’s future, Marcella (Romana Maggiora Vergano is a certain revelation). This story not only shines in such emotional moments but also in all of the comedic add-ons. Unexpectedly, black humour is linked with Italian puns and situational comedy, reminding us of Louis de Funès’ scinema.

Its fidelity to the nostalgia of Italian neorealism makes it even more alluring. Every outdoor shot deserves to be a future wallpaper, while indoor sequences underline Delia’s dismal tragedy. This echoes Rossellini, De Sica and many others, as this film is one huge homage to their neorealist craft. And, although Delia is pigeonholed to the stereotyped, Italian “ragazza madre”, she’s more than that; her obstinacy makes her truly remarkable. 

Yes, Delia’s life is rather woeful, however, her maternal affections and never-ending dreams make her independent and awe-inspiring. Seemingly, this comedy-drama has an Italian heart at its core. Yet, the message conveyed in Cortellesi’s film goes beyond it and can be related to every modern woman watching it. The director tells the audience about the importance of supporting each other and remembering to stay tenacious no matter what.

It’s an unforgettable experience full of myriad emotions, channelled by indigenous citizens of one of Rome’s most charming (and poverty-stricken) districts. We cry in merry tears, occasionally saddened by Delia’s state of affairs, but constantly hope she will reach her politically invested goal and beat the Italian patriarchy. In a sense, we’re right behind her, walking in her footsteps. When she’s mistreated, almost at her worst, we’re first to lift her up. When she’s triumphant, it’s a win for everyone, Delia and us. There’s beauty in those dynamics, leaving an indelible mark on the audience’s souls.

Jan Tracz

There’s Still Tomorrow is released nationwide on 25^th April 2024.

Watch the trailer for There’s Still Tomorrow here: