Today : May 10, 2025
Arts & Culture
07 May 2025

Italian Cinema Shines At 70th David Di Donatello Awards

The prestigious ceremony celebrates cinematic excellence with 26 awards and special honors tonight.

The excitement is palpable as the 70th edition of the David di Donatello awards is set to unfold tonight, May 7, 2025, in a live broadcast on Rai1 from the iconic Teatro 5 in Cinecittà. This prestigious event, a hallmark of Italian cinema, will be hosted by the dynamic duo of Elena Sofia Ricci and Mika, who take over from Carlo Conti this year.

The David di Donatello 2025 ceremony promises to be a grand celebration of film, featuring the presentation of 26 awards, including the coveted David Speciali. This year’s lineup reflects the rich tapestry of Italian cinema, with awards spanning categories such as best film, best director, and best screenplay, among others. The ceremony will not only recognize established talents but also shine a light on emerging voices in the industry.

Among the notable films vying for recognition, "Berlinguer – La grande ambizione" directed by Andrea Segre and Paolo Sorrentino's "Parthenope" lead the pack with 15 nominations each. Following closely are Valeria Golino's "L’arte della gioia" and Maura Delpero's "Vermiglio," both with 14 nominations. Margherita Vicario's debut film "Gloria!" also makes a strong showing with 9 nominations, capturing the attention of both critics and audiences alike.

In an exciting development, the David for best international film has already been awarded to Sean Baker's "Anora," while Ferzan Özpetek's "Diamanti" has clinched the David dello spettatore, a testament to its popularity among viewers. The evening will also honor several distinguished figures in cinema, including Timothée Chalamet and Ornella Muti, who will receive David Speciali awards, and Pupi Avati, who will be recognized with the David alla Carriera for his contributions to the film industry.

Giuseppe Tornatore will receive the Premio Speciale Cinecittà David 70, celebrating his enduring legacy in cinema. The awards ceremony will be a star-studded affair, with a host of celebrities in attendance, including Riccardo Cocciante, who will perform as the musical guest. His song "Era già tutto previsto," featured in Sorrentino's "Parthenope," has resonated deeply with audiences, further enhancing the evening's emotional depth.

The live broadcast will begin at 21:20 on Rai1 and will also be available in 4K on Rai4K (channel 210 on Tivùsat). For those who prefer streaming, the ceremony can be watched on RaiPlay, which will feature real-time updates and highlights from the event. Additionally, the ceremony will be broadcast on Rai Radio2, hosted by Carolina Di Domenico, ensuring that fans can enjoy the festivities from various platforms.

As the night unfolds, viewers will witness the unveiling of the winners across various categories, including best actor and actress, best supporting roles, and technical achievements. The anticipation surrounding the awards is heightened by the competitive nature of this year’s nominees, particularly the showdown between "Berlinguer – La grande ambizione" and "Parthenope," both of which are expected to dominate the evening.

With the backdrop of the Conclave, which will see the Sistine Chapel closed from 16:30, the David di Donatello ceremony stands as a beacon of cultural celebration amidst the solemnity of the day. As the red carpet rolls out and the lights dim, the heart of Italian cinema will shine brightly, honoring the artistry and passion that defines this beloved industry.

In summary, the 70th edition of the David di Donatello awards is not just a ceremony; it’s a celebration of the cinematic achievements that have shaped Italian culture over the past year. With its blend of glamour, emotion, and talent, this year’s event is poised to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of Italian cinema.