by InTrieste
Matteo Garrone’s poignant migration-themed masterpiece “Io Capitano” and Paola Cortellesi’s empowering feminist dramedy “C’è ancora domani” emerged as the frontrunners at the 69th David di Donatello Awards held in Rome on Friday.
Garrone’s Oscar-nominated film clinched the spotlight by securing awards for Best Picture and Best Director, marking a triumphant moment at Italy’s premier film event, often dubbed the Italian equivalent of the Oscars, hosted at the illustrious Cinecittà film studios.
Based on the real-life odyssey of two young Senegalese men braving the treacherous journey from Dakar to Italy, “Io Capitano” also garnered accolades for Best Producer, Cinematography, Editing, Sound, and Visual Effects, underscoring its multifaceted brilliance.
Meanwhile, Paola Cortellesi’s monochrome marvel, “C’è ancora domani,” affectionately translated as “There’s Still Tomorrow,” secured an impressive tally of six David di Donatello awards.
Cortellesi’s remarkable performance earned her the coveted titles of Best Actress and Best Directorial Debut for her poignant portrayal of an abused housewife navigating the intricacies of post-war Rome, while confronting the shackles of patriarchy and advocating for women’s empowerment.
The film further distinguished itself by clinching awards for Best Original Screenplay, jointly crafted by Cortellesi alongside Furio Andreotti and Giulia Calenda, along with Best Supporting Actress for Emanuela Fanelli. Notably, it also captured the Spectator Prize and the David Giovani, a distinction adjudged by a panel of youthful jurors.
“C’è ancora domani” has surged as one of Italy’s top 10 highest-grossing films of all time, captivating audiences since its debut last October with a staggering 4.8 million viewers, surpassing even the global sensation “Barbie,” which recorded 4.3 million ticket sales in Italy.
In addition to the resounding success of Garrone and Cortellesi’s creations, Marco Bellocchio’s poignant narrative “Rapito” (“Kidnapped”) received accolades for Best Adapted Screenplay, Set Design, Costumes, Makeup, and Hair. The film delves into the harrowing true story of a Jewish boy forcibly separated from his family by the Papal States and raised within the Catholic fold during 19th-century Italy.
Since its inception in 1955, the David di Donatello Awards have served as a beacon of excellence in Italian cinema, celebrating the diverse tapestry of talent and storytelling prowess within the nation’s vibrant film industry.
