The 70th edition of the David di Donatello awards took place on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, showcasing the best of Italian cinema in a vibrant ceremony broadcast live on Rai 1. Hosted by the charismatic duo of Elena Sofia Ricci and Mika, the event celebrated artistic excellence, emotional storytelling, and the creative energy of the film industry.
This year, the spotlight shone brightly on films that not only captivated audiences but also pushed the boundaries of cinematic expression. Leading the pack were the films "Berlinguer - La grande ambizione" and "Parthenope," each garnering an impressive 15 nominations. These films competed fiercely in key categories such as Best Film, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay.
Among the notable winners, Maura Delpero claimed the award for Best Original Screenplay with her film "Vermiglio," which was praised for its emotional depth and narrative originality. Delpero expressed her gratitude on stage, highlighting the importance of storytelling in times of conflict, stating, "Writing a screenplay can be beautiful but also terrifying, especially when you're alone. This award is a beautiful signal against the homogenization of language in film." Her work, which reflects a deep anti-militaristic sentiment, resonated strongly in today's context of global tensions.
Valeria Bruni Tedeschi won the award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "L'arte della gioia," a Sky Original series directed by Valeria Golino. In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Bruni Tedeschi thanked her collaborators and reflected on the courage it takes to portray complex characters, saying, "I think I was awarded for having the courage to play a character older than myself. Thank you to those who made me age on screen!" Her performance as the matriarch Gaia Brandiforti was noted for its depth and emotional resonance.
Francesco Di Leva received the award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "Familia." Overcome with emotion, he dedicated his win to his daughter, saying, "I knew I would win because my daughter Morena dreamed it! I love you, my daughter. You are my life... always dream!" His performance was celebrated for its intensity and the way it illuminated the complexities of fatherhood.
The award for Best Production Design went to Tonino Zera, Maria Grazia Schirripa, and Carlotta Desmann for their work on "Le Déluge - Gli ultimi giorni di Maria Antonietta." Their meticulous attention to detail and ability to recreate historical environments contributed significantly to the film's visual storytelling.
In the international category, Sean Baker's "Anora" won the award for Best International Film, further establishing Baker's reputation as a significant voice in contemporary cinema. Meanwhile, Ferzan Özpetek's "Diamanti" was awarded the David dello Spettatore (David of the Spectator), recognizing its widespread appeal, having attracted over 2.3 million viewers. Özpetek expressed his gratitude to the audience, emphasizing the emotional connection his film forged with viewers.
Timothée Chalamet, the acclaimed actor, was honored with a David Speciale. Chalamet, who attended the ceremony with his girlfriend Kylie Jenner, expressed his deep connection to Italy, saying, "I feel a profound connection with this country. I have drawn inspiration from its cinematic history and the incredible filmmakers I have worked with, like Luca Guadagnino." His heartfelt remarks resonated with the audience, showcasing the bond between Italian cinema and international talent.
Adding a modern twist to the evening, the inaugural TikTok #DaVedere Awards recognized the film "Il ragazzo dai pantaloni rosa," which won two categories: "Racconto del Film su TikTok" and "Da personaggio a icona su TikTok." This initiative, a collaboration between the Italian Film Academy and TikTok, aims to celebrate the intersection of cinema and digital creativity, engaging younger audiences in new ways.
As the ceremony unfolded at the iconic Teatro 5 in Cinecittà, it was not just a celebration of cinematic achievements but also a moment of reflection on the resilience of the Italian film industry. Francesca Comencini, a prominent director, spoke about the challenges faced by filmmakers, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in times of crisis. She stated, "Cinema is fragile yet resilient; it tells our stories and reflects our culture. We must support those who are working in this industry, especially now."
Throughout the night, the atmosphere was filled with joy, nostalgia, and a sense of community among the attendees. The ceremony served as a reminder of the power of film to inspire, provoke thought, and bring people together. The performances by Mika and Claudio Santamaria, including a tribute to the late Eleonora Giorgi, added a musical dimension to the celebration.
As the event drew to a close, the message was clear: the 70th edition of the David di Donatello awards not only honored past achievements but also looked forward to the future of Italian cinema. With a blend of established names and emerging talents, the night encapsulated the spirit of creativity and innovation that continues to define the industry.
In a world where the challenges facing filmmakers are ever-present, the David di Donatello awards remind us of the importance of resilience, creativity, and the shared passion for storytelling that binds the cinematic community together.
