Paola Cortellesi is one of Italy’s most beloved and multifaceted entertainers. With a career spanning over two decades, she has captivated audiences through her work as an actress, comedian, singer, screenwriter, and more recently, a critically acclaimed director. Combining sharp wit with emotional depth, Cortellesi’s work reflects the richness and complexity of Italian culture, often addressing important social issues with humor and grace.
Early Life and Beginnings
Born on November 24, 1973, in Rome, Italy, Paola Cortellesi grew up in a creative environment. From an early age, she showed a keen interest in the performing arts, studying acting at the prestigious Silvio D'Amico Academy of Dramatic Arts. Her passion for comedy was also evident; she was deeply inspired by iconic figures such as Monica Vitti and Anna Marchesini, whose influences can be seen throughout her career.
Cortellesi first made her mark in the Italian entertainment world through voice acting and television, where her ability to mimic voices and deliver sharp comic performances quickly garnered attention.
Rise to Fame: From Comedy to Cinema
Paola's big break came in the late 1990s and early 2000s with appearances on popular Italian TV shows like Mai dire Gol, where she became known for her brilliant impersonations and comedic sketches. Her flair for satire and her natural timing made her a household name.
However, Cortellesi was determined to expand her repertoire beyond comedy. Her transition to cinema was seamless, showcasing her impressive range as an actress. Films such as Maschi contro Femmine (2010) and C'è chi dice no (2011) highlighted her ability to shift effortlessly between comedic and dramatic roles.
Her performances were lauded for their authenticity, making her one of the few actresses in Italy capable of mastering such a broad emotional spectrum.
Acclaimed Filmography and Notable Roles
Throughout her career, Cortellesi has starred in a wide variety of films and TV series, collaborating with some of Italy’s most prominent directors. Some of her most celebrated works include:
Come un gatto in tangenziale (2017): A box-office success where Cortellesi played a working-class single mother, blending humor with sharp social commentary.
Ma cosa ci dice il cervello (2019): A satirical comedy where she played an undercover agent, further demonstrating her ability to combine action and humor.
Petra (2020): In this crime drama TV series, she portrayed Petra Delicato, a strong and complex police inspector based on the novels of Alicia Giménez-Bartlett.
Each role has showcased Cortellesi's remarkable versatility, allowing her to explore different aspects of Italian society while remaining deeply relatable to her audience.
Paola Cortellesi as Director: There’s Still Tomorrow
In 2023, Paola Cortellesi made her directorial debut with the film C'è ancora domani (There’s Still Tomorrow), a stunning black-and-white drama set in post-war Rome. The movie tells the story of a woman fighting against domestic oppression in a society where female rights were severely restricted.
There’s Still Tomorrow was met with extraordinary critical and public acclaim, becoming a cultural phenomenon in Italy. It not only showcased Cortellesi's talents behind the camera but also established her as a powerful voice advocating for women’s rights and social justice.
The film’s emotional impact, coupled with its historical resonance, positioned Cortellesi as one of the leading contemporary figures in Italian cinema today.
Awards and Recognition
Over the years, Paola Cortellesi has received numerous awards and honors, including:
David di Donatello Award for Best Actress
Nastro d'Argento for both comedic and dramatic performances
Recognition at major film festivals for her contribution to Italian cinema and culture
Her ability to blend humor with humanity has resonated deeply not just within Italy, but also internationally.
Personal Life and Legacy
Despite her fame, Cortellesi remains remarkably grounded. She is married to director Riccardo Milani, with whom she frequently collaborates both personally and professionally. Together, they have a daughter.
Cortellesi continues to be a role model for aspiring performers, particularly women, who admire her refusal to be pigeonholed into one genre or role. Her career is a testament to creativity, perseverance, and the enduring power of storytelling.
Final Thoughts
Paola Cortellesi's journey from comic impersonator to cinematic auteur is a reflection of her immense talent and relentless drive. Whether on stage, in front of the camera, or behind it, she brings intelligence, compassion, and humor to everything she does. As Italian cinema continues to evolve, Paola Cortellesi remains one of its brightest and most influential stars, constantly pushing boundaries and inspiring generations to come.
