The fight for women’s freedom and their proper life in a patriarchal world: The Italian film“C’è ancora domani” and the history of Delia.

Nowadays, women’s role has become more relevant and important than in the past: they have their own work, they are independent, and they can choose about their own life, including whether they want to get married and have children.

With no doubt, the saddest thing is that it is still not normal for a woman to have a different situation compared to ancient times. Indeed, while it depends on each woman’s will, it is still common to see that many women must stay at home, take care of the house and children, and have no choice to change their lives, even if they want to become independent.

Let’s go back to 1946 in Italy: after World War II, women were caught between rising freedom and the total absence of it.

On June 2, 1946, women were allowed to vote for the first time in Italy, but they were still trapped in a patriarchal system and a way of life that limited their rights.

Paola Cortellesi, a famous Italian actress, represented this part of history in her film “C’è ancora domani”, translated into English as “There’s Still Tomorrow”. She co-wrote, directed, and played the main character in this film.

The film tells the story of the Santucci family, who live in Rome in 1946, right after World War II had ended.

Delia, the protagonist, is both a mother and a wife, the only roles she is allowed to have. Her husband, Ivano, constantly humiliates her, reminding her that she is nothing.

However, Delia’s desire to be independent pushes her to take small jobs, such as working as a seamstress and a nurse. Although part of her earnings go to the family, she secretly saves money every day for her daughter Marcella’s future.

Marcella is courted by a young and wealthy boy, Giulio. But Delia sees how he behaves with her daughter and decides to save Marcella from her same fate.

With the help of William, an American soldier and Delia’s friend, she destroys Giulio’s family patisserie.

Finally, Marcella can study thanks to the money Delia saved for her.

At the end of the film, Delia escapes from her house and reaches the place where women can vote for the first time in Italy.

Ivano tries to stop her from voting, fearing her evident freedom. But then, a group of women—all strong, all independent, wearing lipstick—stand against him.

This scene symbolizes the collective fight of women for their rights against Ivano, who represents the patriarchal system.

Paola Cortellesi’s film is a demonstration of how a woman can do anything she wants—both in and outside the film.

Written by: Federica Egidia Maria Rita Nato

References:

1. Sky TG24 - Paola Cortellesi

2. Vogue Italia - C’è ancora domani

3. Wikipedia - C’è ancora domani