There's Still Tomorrow (2025) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The film is set in Rome, Italy, in the aftermath of World War II. The city serves as both a backdrop to the personal struggles of the characters and a representation of a nation rebuilding itself after devastating conflict.

• rome
• italy
• postwar
• setting
• location

The story takes place in May 1946, a pivotal moment in Italian history when the country was transitioning from a monarchy to a republic. This period marked significant social and political upheaval as Italy emerged from the devastation of World War II.

• 1946
• may 1946
• postwar
• italy
• historical period

Delia is a resilient working-class woman living in post-war Rome who endures an abusive marriage while raising her daughter. Her primary motivation is securing a better future for her children and breaking free from the cycle of oppression that defines her daily life.

• delia
• protagonist
• woman
• abuse
• mother

Ivano Santucci is Delia's husband, portrayed as an abusive and oppressive figure who embodies the toxic masculinity prevalent in post-war Italian society. His character represents the patriarchal structures that confined women to subordinate roles during this historical period.

• ivano
• husband
• abuser
• antagonist

Marcella is Delia's teenage daughter, whose engagement to Giulio Moretti represents the continuation of a potentially abusive cycle that Delia desperately wants to interrupt. Her future and wellbeing serve as the primary catalyst for Delia's awakening and fight for independence.

• marcella
• daughter
• engagement
• giulio moretti

William is an African American soldier who appears as a symbol of hope and solidarity for Delia. His kindness contrasts sharply with Ivano's abuse, offering Delia encouragement and a glimpse of possibility beyond her oppressive circumstances.

• william
• american soldier
• ally
• support
• hope

Ottorino is Delia's father-in-law, representing the older generation struggling to adapt to rapid societal changes. His presence adds emotional complexity, as Delia cares for him while enduring her own abusive situation, highlighting the burdens women often carried within family structures.

• ottorino
• father-in-law
• elder
• family burden

The theme of empowerment runs strongly throughout the narrative as Delia seeks independence from her abusive relationship. Her desire to vote symbolizes her quest for agency and a better future not only for herself but also for her daughter, illustrating the fight against patriarchal oppression in post-war Italy.

• empowerment
• women rights
• independence
• agency
• voting

Family struggles are central to the film, depicted through Delia's conflicts with her abusive husband and her fierce desire to protect her daughter. The narrative highlights the emotional toll of domestic violence and the societal expectations placed on women, showing the profound sacrifices mothers make for their children's futures.

• family
• domestic abuse
• motherhood
• protection
• sacrifice

The backdrop of political change underscores the characters' personal battles as Italy transitions to a republic. The importance of voting and political engagement is emphasized through Delia's experience at the polls, capturing a pivotal historical moment where ordinary citizens begin to take control of their destinies.

• politics
• republic
• 1946 referendum
• voting
• political change
• italy

Voting serves as a powerful symbol of freedom and agency for Delia. The 1946 referendum, which established Italy as a republic, coincides with her personal awakening. Her vote represents not just a political act but a declaration of independence and her first step toward reclaiming control over her own life.

• vote
• ballot
• freedom
• independence
• republic referendum

Post-war Rome was characterized by significant challenges including widespread poverty and the massive effort of rebuilding after WWII. The city's vibrant streets stood in stark contrast to the struggles of its inhabitants as they navigated the complexities of recovering from war while facing uncertain political futures.

• postwar rome
• poverty
• rebuilding
• italy
• 1940s

The film reflects the changing status of women in post-war Italy, a time when women were gaining new rights including the right to vote. Delia's journey represents the broader social shift occurring in Italian society, where women began to challenge traditional roles and seek greater autonomy within their families and communities.

• women rights
• italian women
• female empowerment
• 1946
• voting rights