The David di Donatello Awards Celebrate 70 Years with a Historic Night for Women in Cinema
Unveiled last Wednesday evening, the big winner of the 70th David di Donatello Awards is “Vermiglio”, a drama film written, co-produced and directed by Maura Delpero. Set in the mountains during the final days of World War II, this poetic fairy tale took home seven awards, including Best Film and Best Director—marking the first time in the history of the David Awards that a woman has won the directing award. Delpero made her stance clear: it’s an anti-militaristic film.
Hosted by Mika and Elena Sofia Ricci, the ceremony was as glamorous as it was poignant, directly addressing topical issues. Elio Germano, awarded for his portrayal of Berlinguer, spoke about the dignity denied to the Palestinian people. Francesca Mannocchi, accepting the award for the documentary on Ukraine, did the same with urgent clarity. Sorrentino, who arrived with 15 nominations for Parthenope, left empty-handed. Meanwhile, Le Déluge won four awards, while Gloria! and L’arte della gioia each received three. Pupi Avati was honoured with the David for Lifetime Achievement, which he turned into a call to the Parliament: “Let’s make a bipartisan effort to save our cinema.”
But the night of stars wasn’t just about the stage. As tradition dictates, Elle Italia and the Academy of Italian Cinema hosted the fourth annual Welcome Cocktail at Cinecittà—a golden, informal moment that precedes the ceremony and brings together artists, directors, and producers in the symbolic heart of Italian cinema. We, at Say Who, were there as well, immersed in the open-air setting of the ancient Roman set, photographing Luisa Ranieri, Luca Zingaretti, Fabrizio Gifuni, Claudio Santamaria, Margherita Vicario, Pierfrancesco Favino, Silvio Orlando, Barbara Ronchi, Giuseppe Tornatore, Jasmine Trinca, Matteo Oscar Giuggioli, Geppi Cucciari, Celeste Della Porta, Elio Germano, designer Brunello Cucinelli, and many others.
Photos: Niccolò Campita
Text: Germano D’Acquisto
