There's Still Tomorrow Plot Summary
Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for There's Still Tomorrow (2025). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.
In the aftermath of War, specifically in May 1946, the streets of Rome are filled with the sounds of Allied military troops driving around in Jeeps, while the city grapples with the challenges of poverty. This dismal landscape is underscored by the looming institutional referendum and the crucial election of the Constituent Assembly scheduled for June 2 and 3.
At the heart of this turmoil is Delia, a resilient woman caught in the harsh grip of her abusive husband Ivano (Valerio Mastandrea), and the devoted mother of three children, including her spirited teenage daughter, Marcella (Romana Maggiora Vergano). Amid her daily domestic obligations, Delia must also care for her bitter father-in-law, Ottorino (Giorgio Colangeli), while juggling various sewing and laundry tasks for affluent locals and city shops. Her friends play significant roles in her life, including Nino, a kind-hearted mechanic hopelessly in love with her, the optimistic market greengrocer Marisa, and William (Yonv Joseph), an African American soldier eager to assist her in breaking free from her oppressive circumstances.
Life takes a turn for Delia when Marcella announces her engagement to the charming but entitled Giulio Moretti, the heir to a family fortune built around a popular ice-cream parlor. Delia quickly realizes that this union could lead her daughter down the same painful path she herself endured, marked by violence and denigration. After a tense Sunday lunch with her future in-laws, where Giulio’s indoctrination of wealth and privilege becomes evident, Delia’s instincts kick in. Using the support of William, she resorts to drastic measures by blowing up Giulio’s bar, forcing his family to lose their fortune and vacate the area. Though Marcella is crushed by this turn of events, Delia feels a surge of empowerment, spurred on by the arrival of her first voter’s card in the mail—a potent symbol of her newfound agency.
Struggling with her domestic life, where her father-in-law’s unexpected passing brings a throng of relatives into her home, Delia remains determined to cast her vote in the upcoming election. However, in a twist of fate, she misplaces her voting card, which first falls into the hands of Ivano, then into the hands of Marcella, who chases after her mother to return it. This moment becomes pivotal, as driven by a fierce desire for change and personal liberation, Delia prepares to assert her presence at the polls—a first for many women in Italy, marking a monumental stride toward independence.
Delia, who had saved 8000 Lire from her meager earnings—initially meant for a wedding dress for Marcella—courageously redirects these funds towards financing her daughter’s education instead. Her journey illustrates a powerful narrative of resistance and hope in the face of adversity, ultimately blossoming into a tale of women’s empowerment as she strives to reclaim her identity and that of her children amid the political upheaval of the times.
There's Still Tomorrow Timeline
Follow the complete movie timeline of There's Still Tomorrow (2025) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.
Post-war Rome in May 1946
The movie is set in post-war Rome, where the atmosphere is charged with the presence of Allied military troops who roam the streets in Jeeps. This period is characterized by poverty and social unrest as the city prepares for a crucial institutional referendum and the election of the Constituent Assembly scheduled for June 2 and 3.
Delia's Struggles
Delia, a woman in an abusive marriage with Ivano, juggles her domestic responsibilities while caring for her father-in-law Ottorino and managing a household of three children. She also takes on sewing and laundry jobs for wealthy individuals, struggling to maintain her dignity in a difficult life.
The Supportive Friendship
Delia finds comfort in her circle of friends which includes Nino, a caring car mechanic; Marisa, an optimistic greengrocer; and William, an African American soldier eager to assist her. These friendships provide her with emotional support amid the turmoil of her daily life.
Marcella's Engagement
Delia's life takes a turn when her teenage daughter Marcella becomes engaged to Giulio Moretti, a wealthy young man whose family owns a profitable ice-cream parlor. As Delia contemplates this engagement, she worries about the potential for her daughter to face a similar unhappy marriage.
The Sunday Lunch
After hosting a Sunday lunch for Marcella's future in-laws, Delia witnesses the bossy behavior of Giulio, prompting her to reflect on the parallels between her own troubled marriage and what her daughter might face. This realization deepens her resolve to change their future.
Delia's Act of Defiance
Determined to prevent Marcella from enduring a life like hers, Delia enlists William's help to sabotage Giulio's family's bar, causing a significant financial blow. This act of defiance is a pivotal moment that showcases Delia's transition from passivity to empowerment.
The Aftermath of the Bar Explosion
The explosion of the bar brings devastation to Marcella, who is heartbroken by the loss of her future and the impact on her fiancé's family. Despite the personal cost, Delia feels that she has made the right choice, as she begins to regain her own agency.
Delia's Voter Card
In a small moment of triumph, Delia receives her first voter's card in the mail, symbolizing her newfound empowerment. She had saved a significant amount of money, initially meant for Marcella's wedding dress, instead opting to use it for her daughter's education as a means of breaking the cycle of abuse.
June 2nd Voting Day
On June 2, as the nation prepares for a crucial vote regarding monarchy versus republic, Delia is eager to participate. However, her plans are complicated by the sudden death of her father-in-law, which draws family and friends to her home and distracts her from her political intentions.
Journey to the Polls
Despite the chaos that follows her father-in-law's death, Delia is determined to reach the polls and cast her vote, marking her first experience as a voter among other Italian women. This journey signifies the gravity of her choice to stand up and participate in the rebuilding of her society.
The Lost Voter Card
Before heading out to vote, Delia accidentally loses her voter card in her house. The card becomes a point of contention as it is discovered first by her husband Ivano, who intends to undermine her agency, followed by Marcella, who understands its significance for her mother's empowerment.
Support from Marcella
In a crucial moment, Marcella finds the voter card and rushes to deliver it to Delia. This act not only highlights their bond but also serves as a pivotal point in Delia's ability to execute her right to vote, reclaiming her sense of self-worth and determination.
Casting the Vote
Finally reaching the polls with the help of her daughter, Delia is able to cast her vote amidst a sea of other women participating for the first time. This action symbolizes a significant step toward individual empowerment and reflects the broader societal change taking place in post-war Italy.
There's Still Tomorrow Characters
Explore all characters from There's Still Tomorrow (2025). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.
Delia
Delia is a resilient and determined woman who navigates the challenges of post-war life as the wife of an abusive husband. Her character evolves as she fights for her autonomy and the future of her children, representing the struggles of many women at the time. Delia's journey reflects both personal growth and socio-political awakening.
Ivano Santucci
Ivano is portrayed as the abusive husband, whose oppressive nature profoundly impacts Delia and their family life. His character embodies the societal norms of masculinity that perpetuate violence and control. Through his actions, the film critiques the traditional family structures and male dominance prevalent in post-war Italy.
Marcella
Marcella, Delia's teenage daughter, is caught between tradition and the desire for independence. Her engagement to Giulio Moretti symbolizes the continuation of the cycle of abuse, which Delia seeks to disrupt. Marcella's journey reflects the youth's struggles during a time of change, as she navigates her future amidst familial pressures.
Ottorino
Ottorino, Delia's father-in-law, represents the older generation struggling with societal changes. His character adds emotional complexity to Delia's life, as she tends to his needs while coping with her own abusive relationship. His presence serves as a reminder of the burdens women often carry within family dynamics.
William
William is an African American soldier whose kindness serves as a counterpoint to Ivano's abuse. His character embodies hope and solidarity, offering Delia encouragement and support in her quest for independence. William's involvement underscores themes of racial dynamics and allyship during the post-war period.
There's Still Tomorrow Settings
Learn where and when There's Still Tomorrow (2025) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.
Time period
May 1946
May 1946 marks a significant and transformative period in Italy as the country was emerging from the devastation of World War II. This was a time of political change, including the referendum for the monarchy and the establishment of the Republic. Social dynamics were shifting as women began to gain more rights, including the right to vote.
Location
Rome
Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city known for its rich history and stunning architecture. Following World War II, it faced significant challenges including poverty and rebuilding efforts. The vibrant streets are contrasted by the struggles of its inhabitants as they navigate the complexities of post-war life.
There's Still Tomorrow Themes
Discover the main themes in There's Still Tomorrow (2025). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.
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Empowerment
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. The story illustrates the fight against patriarchal oppression in a culturally complex environment.
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Family Struggles
Family struggles are central to the film, depicted through Delia's conflicts with her abusive husband and her desire to protect her daughter. The dynamics between family members highlight the emotional toll of domestic violence and the societal expectations placed on women. Delia's choices ultimately show the lengths a mother will go to secure a better future for her children.
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Political Change
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. The film captures a pivotal moment in history where ordinary citizens begin to take control of their destinies in a fractured society.
There's Still Tomorrow Spoiler-Free Summary
Discover the spoiler-free summary of There's Still Tomorrow (2025). Get a concise overview without any spoilers.
In the lingering shadows of post‑war Rome, the city hums with a restless mix of reconstruction and uncertainty. The cobbled streets are alive with the distant rumble of Allied jeeps, while market stalls and modest apartments bear the weight of scarcity. A nation is on the brink of a historic transformation, with the upcoming Constituent Assembly election promising new voices to be heard—especially those of women who have long been silent in the public sphere. The atmosphere is both gritty and hopeful, a delicate balance between the daily grind of survival and the promise of a broader, democratic future.
At the heart of this world lives Delia, a resilient working‑class mother who juggles the relentless demands of her household. She tends to three children, cares for the bitter old father‑in‑law, and endures an abusive marriage with Ivano. Her hands are steady from sewing and laundry work carried out for wealthier neighbors, a modest trade that barely keeps the family afloat. Yet she is not alone in her struggle: Nino, a gentle mechanic who harbors quiet affection for her; Marisa, a market greengrocer whose optimism steadies the days; and William, an African‑American soldier whose willingness to help offers a glimpse of solidarity beyond the familiar streets. Her teenage daughter, Marcella, stands on the cusp of adulthood, her own dreams tangled with the expectations of a society still holding tightly to tradition.
Amid the clamor of elections and the arrival of a mysterious letter, Delia feels a stirring she has not known before. The correspondence, unexpected and intimate, awakens a fierce desire to claim a future for herself and her children that extends beyond the confines of her home. As the city prepares to cast its first votes, a quiet courage builds within her, hinting at a path that may finally allow her to step into the public arena, to be seen, and to shape the destiny she has long yearned for.
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