Celeste Dalla Porta makes her debut as the lead in Parthenope, Paolo Sorrentino's latest feature film, with a performance that has not only won over critics but also left a lasting impression on audiences. In the film, Celeste portrays a passionate and free-spirited woman caught between the ghosts of her past and an uncertain present. Unafraid of solitude and uninterested in seeking others' approval, Parthenope reflects on time, independence, and the quest for answers — even when they remain elusive.
“What I learned from my character was to listen to myself and not depend on others’ expectations. Her struggle to move forward after a major trauma taught me a great deal,” Celeste admits during her visit to Madrid ahead of the film’s Spanish release on December 25th. Her words reveal that the actress's journey and her character's overlap more than one might expect.
With visually striking cinematography and Naples as its backdrop, Parthenope becomes a modern fable embracing solitude, self-discovery, and the pursuit of freedom. For Celeste, however, the experience went beyond the professional. Each scene, each line of dialogue, marked a process of personal growth. At just twenty-seven, the actress has proven herself capable of tackling challenges with courage and authenticity. Her sensitivity and strength as a performer promise a bright future. In this interview, she reflects on her experience in the film, what Parthenope taught her, and how acting has become a way of addressing life’s deepest questions.
Parthenope is your first leading role, and it’s directed by Paolo Sorrentino. How did you feel taking on such an important role in such an ambitious film?
It was incredibly exciting and an unexpected shift in mindset. In an experience like this, you have to be aware of what’s at stake and the responsibility it entails. It’s wonderful but also quite daunting.
You’ve been called ‘the new muse of Italian cinema.’ How do you feel about this title, and what are your dreams for the future?
I’m not sure exactly how I feel, but I’m very positive about it. I feel honoured and deeply grateful for this opportunity. As for the future, I’m not entirely certain — I try to stay in the present, focusing on this promotion and ensuring the film progresses as it should.
The film is described as a love letter to Naples. What role does the city play in the story and in your personal connection to the character?
I had never been to Capri, and my prior experience of Naples had been quite superficial. This time, I got to experience it more deeply, and I was struck by how welcoming it is. From the start, I felt at home. It’s a unique city, full of vitality and with a distinct identity. Representing a Neapolitan character was profoundly meaningful to me.
Parthenope is a passionate, free-spirited woman with a forward-looking vision. What did you learn from her? Did portraying her affect you personally in any way?
I learned a lot from her. And yes, playing her influenced me because she is a free woman, unafraid of being alone or judged. She has a strong inner dialogue, which makes her reserved — not because she lacks confidence but because she doesn’t need others’ approval. Listening to herself is enough. That taught me something very valuable: the importance of recognising yourself and not relying on others’ judgments.
Parthenope is caught between the ghosts of her past and a present she struggles to inhabit. What drew you to such a complex, multifaceted character?
Everything. It’s a complete story — a woman’s journey to move forward after a massive trauma. The passion I found in this film lies precisely in that: her effort not to succumb to the drama but, as the film says, to try to survive.
The film explores themes of youth and the loss of youth. What does being young mean to you? Did this role change how you view or experience your own youth?
Yes, because the main theme of the film is the passage of time. It’s something we all reflect on at some point, but portraying it in this context pushes you to think more deeply. It made me reflect on what it means to be young and to stop being young. For example, I’m in a transitional phase. I’m still young (I’m twenty-seven) but not as young as I once was. I’m entering another stage, approaching thirty, and that brings changes. This role helped me understand how delicate this moment is, where possibilities and priorities shift.
“Parthenope helped me understand that definitive answers aren’t always necessary. Questions are the driving force of growth.”
In the film, the carriage holds strong symbolic significance. What does it mean to you, and how do you think it relates to Parthenope’s emotional journey?
When Parthenope sleeps in her carriage, she travels through dreams. Her life story unfolds in a dreamlike way. To me, the carriage represents protection, the idea of a princess living in a bubble. But this character tries to break that bubble, step into reality, and seek the truth. Or perhaps everything that happens is just a dream. I like to think of that ambiguity.
In today’s society, where relationships often feel fleeting, what do you think we can learn from the loves and connections Parthenope experiences in the film?
Whatever people wish to take from it. Everyone is free to interpret these images in their own way. I don’t think there’s a right or wrong answer; the key is the opportunity to connect with the story on a personal level.
Your character seeks answers through acting. Do you think being an actress allows you to find answers in your own life?
I think Parthenope helped me understand that definitive answers aren’t always necessary. Questions are the driving force of growth, and when they change, it means you no longer need an answer. That’s what I learned from her.
You worked alongside cinematic legends like Stefania Sandrelli and Gary Oldman. What did you learn from sharing scenes with them?
I learned that the most important thing is to remain humble and open to learning. The beauty of working with great artists is seeing how they approach the script as if it’s their first time, with the same passion and dedication.
What do you hope the audience feels or takes away from Parthenope?
I hope the audience lets themselves be carried by the emotions Paolo wants to convey. I don’t have a specific wish because I think that would be a bit presumptuous.
Who is Celeste Dalla Porta beyond the actress? Do you see any similarities between yourself and Parthenope?
Undoubtedly, I see some similarities. Like her, I fight for my freedom and to keep doing what I love, even when faced with obstacles. And that feeling of being alone, but never truly alone, is something I also experience.
Finally, what was the greatest challenge in portraying this role?
The entire film (laughs). There isn’t anything more or less difficult. When you work on a film like this for three months, everything becomes both easy and difficult at the same time. It’s a great paradox.
