In the realm of cinematic storytelling, few films capture the heart and soul of a bygone era while resonating with modern audiences as powerfully as There’s Still Tomorrow (2025). Directed by and starring the immensely talented Paola Cortellesi, this Italian period comedy-drama has emerged as a global sensation, blending neorealist aesthetics with contemporary feminist themes. Set against the backdrop of post-World War II Rome, the film weaves a tale of courage, resilience, and quiet rebellion, earning critical acclaim, box-office success, and six Italian Academy Awards. In this comprehensive 2200-word exploration, we dive into the movie’s stellar cast, gripping trailer, OTT availability, and in-depth review, uncovering why There’s Still Tomorrow is a must-watch masterpiece in 2025.
Introduction: Why There’s Still Tomorrow Stands Out
Released in the United States on March 7, 2025, There’s Still Tomorrow (Italian: C’è ancora domani) is not just a film—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Originally premiering in Italy in 2023, it became the highest-grossing Italian film of the year, surpassing even global blockbusters like Barbie in ticket sales. Its black-and-white neorealist style pays homage to the Italian cinema of the 1940s and 50s, while its narrative tackles timeless issues of domestic abuse, societal constraints, and the fight for personal agency. With a runtime of 1 hour and 58 minutes, the film balances humor, drama, and historical significance, making it a compelling watch for audiences worldwide.
In this SEO-optimized article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about There’s Still Tomorrow—from its powerhouse cast to its evocative trailer, streaming availability, and a detailed review that explores its strengths and nuances. Whether you’re a cinephile, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for your next binge-worthy film, this guide will leave you eager to experience Cortellesi’s directorial debut.
The Cast: A Stellar Ensemble Bringing Post-War Rome to Life
The heart of There’s Still Tomorrow lies in its exceptional cast, led by Paola Cortellesi, who not only stars as the protagonist but also marks her directorial debut with this project. Each actor delivers a nuanced performance, breathing life into the gritty yet hopeful world of 1940s Italy. Here’s a closer look at the key players:
1. Paola Cortellesi as Delia
Cortellesi plays Delia, a working-class wife and mother navigating the hardships of post-war Rome. Her portrayal is both heartbreaking and inspiring, capturing Delia’s quiet strength as she endures an abusive marriage while dreaming of a better future for herself and her daughter. Cortellesi’s transformation into a frumpy, resilient figure is a testament to her versatility, moving away from her usual sharp, comedic persona to embody a woman shaped by adversity.
2. Valerio Mastandrea as Ivano
Mastandrea delivers a chilling performance as Ivano, Delia’s domineering and abusive husband. His portrayal avoids caricature, presenting Ivano as a complex figure whose cruelty stems from societal norms and personal insecurities. Mastandrea’s ability to evoke both menace and pathos adds depth to the film’s exploration of toxic masculinity.
3. Romana Maggiora Vergano as Marcella
As Delia’s teenage daughter, Marcella, Vergano shines as a young woman on the cusp of adulthood, grappling with her family’s struggles and her own aspirations. Her performance captures the tension between filial duty and the desire for independence, making Marcella a pivotal figure in the story’s emotional arc.
4. Emanuela Fanelli as Marisa
Fanelli’s Marisa, Delia’s witty and optimistic friend who runs a vegetable cart, injects much-needed levity into the film. Her chemistry with Cortellesi creates moments of warmth and humor, offering a glimpse of the sisterly bonds that sustain Delia through her trials.
5. Vinicio Marchioni as Nino
Marchioni plays Nino, a car mechanic and Delia’s childhood sweetheart, whose lingering affection adds a layer of romantic tension. His understated performance conveys longing and restraint, making Nino a symbol of what could have been for Delia.
6. Giorgio Colangeli as Sor Ottorino
Colangeli’s portrayal of Ivano’s cantankerous, bedridden father, Ottorino, is equal parts infuriating and darkly comedic. His interactions with Delia highlight the patriarchal structures that confine her, yet his vulnerability adds complexity to the family dynamic.
Supporting Cast
The film is enriched by a talented ensemble, including Francesco Centorame as Giulio, Marcella’s fiancé, and Yonv Joseph as William, an African American soldier who offers Delia kindness and support. Each actor contributes to the vivid tapestry of post-war Rome, creating a world that feels authentic and lived-in.
The Trailer: A Glimpse into a World of Struggle and Hope
The official trailer for There’s Still Tomorrow is a masterclass in storytelling, condensing the film’s emotional depth into a 2-minute-27-second glimpse that leaves viewers eager for more. Available on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb, the trailer opens with stark black-and-white visuals of Rome’s bustling streets, setting the tone for the neorealist aesthetic. We see Delia hurrying through her daily chores—cooking, cleaning, and working odd jobs—while enduring Ivano’s casual cruelty, signaled by a shocking wake-up slap that underscores the normalized abuse she faces.
The trailer pivots to moments of hope: a mysterious letter arriving in Delia’s hands, her playful banter with Marisa, and stolen glances with Nino. These snippets hint at Delia’s inner strength and the possibility of change. The music, blending period-appropriate Italian songs like Aprite le finestre with a modern score, amplifies the trailer’s emotional pull, while quick cuts of Marcella’s engagement and family tensions build anticipation. Without revealing the film’s pivotal twists, the trailer invites viewers into Delia’s world, promising a story that’s both heart-wrenching and uplifting.
For those eager to watch, the trailer is accessible on YouTube, Fandango, and the film’s official site, making it a perfect starting point to gauge whether There’s Still Tomorrow is your next cinematic obsession.
OTT Availability: Where to Watch There’s Still Tomorrow in 2025
As of April 11, 2025, There’s Still Tomorrow has completed its theatrical run in the United States, having premiered on March 7 via Greenwich Entertainment. For viewers looking to stream the film, OTT platforms are the next frontier, though availability may vary by region due to distribution agreements.
Current OTT Status
- United States: While the film is not yet available on major OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Hulu, it’s expected to hit digital platforms soon, given its theatrical success. Websites like Moviefone and Fandango suggest checking for rental or purchase options on services like Apple TV, Google Play, or Vudu in the coming weeks.
- International Markets: In markets like the UK and Australia, where the film released earlier (April 26, 2024, and October 24, 2024, respectively), it may already be available on local platforms such as Sky Cinema or Stan. Italian viewers can likely find it on services like RaiPlay or TIMvision, given its domestic popularity.
- Future Prospects: Industry trends suggest There’s Still Tomorrow could land on a major streamer by mid-2025, especially after its Oscar ineligibility sparked buzz (the film was controversially disqualified for the 2025 Academy Awards due to technicalities). Keep an eye on OTTplay or MyVi for updates on its digital release.
Tips for Finding the Film
To stay updated, subscribe to newsletters from platforms like Netflix or check aggregator sites like 91mobiles.com for weekly OTT release lists. Social media buzz on X also hints at growing demand for the film’s streaming debut, so following hashtags like #TheresStillTomorrow could lead to timely announcements.
Review: A Nuanced Blend of Humor, Heart, and History
There’s Still Tomorrow is a film that defies easy categorization. It’s a comedy that doesn’t shy away from darkness, a drama that finds joy in small victories, and a feminist manifesto delivered with subtlety and grace. Below, we dissect its strengths, weaknesses, and cultural impact, drawing on critical insights and audience reactions.
Plot Synopsis
Set in 1946 Rome, the film follows Delia, a working-class woman juggling multiple roles: dutiful wife to the abusive Ivano, caregiver to his ailing father, and mother to three children, including the headstrong Marcella. Delia’s days are filled with grueling labor—sewing, laundry, and odd jobs—yet her spirit remains unbroken. When Marcella’s engagement to Giulio, a wealthy ice-cream parlor heir, promises financial relief, Delia begins to question whether her daughter is doomed to repeat her own cycle of abuse. The arrival of a mysterious letter sparks a transformation in Delia, leading her to confront her circumstances and embrace a historic moment in Italian history: women’s suffrage.
Strengths
- Cortellesi’s Vision: As director, writer, and star, Cortellesi delivers a tour de force. Her neorealist-inspired visuals—shot in hyper-saturated monochrome—evoke classics like Bicycle Thieves, while her modern lens infuses the story with feminist urgency. The New York Times praises her ability to tell “a nuanced story about domestic abuse” ().
- Emotional Balance: The film deftly balances humor and heartache. Scenes of Delia and Marisa joking at the market provide levity, while moments of violence are handled with restraint, avoiding exploitation. Roger Ebert’s review notes the “inherent drama of mundane occurrences” as a highlight ().
- Historical Context: By tying Delia’s journey to Italy’s 1946 referendum, which granted women the right to vote, the film celebrates small victories as steps toward collective progress. This historical anchor adds depth, though some critics argue it feels like a “history lesson” ().
- Performances: The ensemble is flawless, with Cortellesi and Mastandrea anchoring the film’s emotional core. Fanelli’s comedic timing and Vergano’s intensity make their characters unforgettable.
Weaknesses
- Tonal Shifts: Some critics, like The Washington Post, find the film’s blend of comedy and drama “dissonant” (). A late-act pivot into historical commentary can feel heavy-handed, momentarily disrupting the narrative flow.
- Narrative Ambiguity: The mysterious letter’s purpose is initially unclear, leading to speculation about Delia’s plans. While this ambiguity fuels intrigue, it may frustrate viewers seeking clarity, as noted in a WordPress review ().
- Limited Universal Appeal: While a smash hit in Italy, the film’s cultural specificity and neorealist style may not resonate universally, a point raised by some international critics ().
Cultural Impact
There’s Still Tomorrow has sparked conversations about gender roles, domestic violence, and women’s empowerment. Its box-office dominance in Italy—grossing €32.4 million and becoming the ninth highest-grossing film in the country’s history—underscores its resonance (). Comparisons to Barbie highlight its feminist ethos, though its grounded approach sets it apart (). Despite missing out on Oscar contention, the film’s six Italian Academy Awards and Rome Film Festival prizes cement its legacy.
Audience Reception
On IMDb, the film holds a 7.7/10 rating, with viewers praising its emotional depth and Cortellesi’s performance (). Rotten Tomatoes reports strong approval, calling it “an Italian box office phenomenon” (). X posts reflect fan enthusiasm, with users calling it “a love letter to resilient women” and “a film that stays with you.”
Final Verdict
There’s Still Tomorrow is a triumph of storytelling, blending humor, heart, and history into a film that’s both timeless and timely. While its tonal shifts and cultural specificity may not suit every viewer, its powerful performances and evocative visuals make it a standout. Whether you’re drawn to character-driven dramas or stories of quiet rebellion, this film delivers on every front.
Why You Should Watch There’s Still Tomorrow in 2025
As we navigate an era of blockbuster franchises and streaming saturation, There’s Still Tomorrow offers a refreshing return to intimate, meaningful cinema. Its exploration of resilience in the face of adversity speaks to anyone who’s ever dared to dream beyond their circumstances. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your watchlist:
- For Cinephiles: The neorealist style and Cortellesi’s directorial finesse make it a love letter to Italian cinema.
- For History Buffs: The film’s connection to Italy’s suffrage movement adds a layer of historical intrigue.
- For Feminists: Delia’s journey is a powerful testament to women’s strength and agency.
- For Everyone: Its universal themes of hope and courage transcend borders, making it a story for all.
Conclusion: A Cinematic Gem Awaits
There’s Still Tomorrow (2025) is more than a film—it’s a celebration of human spirit, a critique of societal norms, and a reminder that change begins with courage. With its stellar cast, evocative trailer, and imminent OTT release, it’s poised to captivate audiences worldwide. Whether you catch it on the big screen or stream it from the comfort of home, Cortellesi’s masterpiece promises an unforgettable journey.
So, grab your popcorn, keep an eye on OTT platforms, and prepare to be moved by There’s Still Tomorrow. Have you seen the trailer yet? Planning to watch it soon? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going!