Editor’s Note
The 71st David di Donatello Awards celebrated Italian cinema with a star-studded ceremony at Cinecittà’s new Teatro 23. Hosted by Bianca Balti and Flavio Insinna, the night honored top films and talent, featuring special guests and a dazzling red carpet.
The 71st David di Donatello Awards, Italy’s most prestigious film ceremony, took place on May 6, 2026, at the new Teatro 23 in Cinecittà, Rome. Hosted by Bianca Balti and Flavio Insinna, the event honored directors, films, and actors, with special guests including Matthew Modine, Stefania Sandrelli, Annalisa, Margherita Vicario, Arisa, Francesca Michielin, Tommaso Paradiso, and Ornella Muti, who received the David Speciale awarded by the Accademia del Cinema Italiano last year.
The red carpet was a showcase of stunning looks from Italian and international stars, with many wearing high-end jewelry and designer gowns.
- Bianca Balti in Jil Sander: A black dress with geometric neckline, marking the return of 90s minimalism.
- Matilda De Angelis in Armani Privé: A fluid velvet gown in night blue from the archive.
- Arisa in Project Hope: A sheer look with faux cut-outs revealing the hips, from a young emerging Made in Italy brand.
- Anna Ferzetti in Armani Privé: A starry luminous dress from the latest Alta Moda collection.
- Valeria Golino in Fendi, jewelry Pomellato: Reinventing the little black dress.
- Giulia Maenza in Louis Vuitton: A tailored suit with a “charms” jacket, as a Rising Star.
- Barbara Ronchi in Valentino: A retro aquamarine silk shantung draped dress paired with diamonds.
- Luca Marinelli and Alissa Jung: Confirmed as the couple to aspire to.
- Ornella Muti: A shimmer dress with a maxi broderie collar, Roman elegance for her Special Award.
- Tecla Insolia in Fendi: A retro look with a crystal-embellished Baguette Fendi bag and a dress adorned with precious micro beads.
- Sara Serraiocco in Valentino, jewelry Marco Bicego: Elegant pairing.
- Claudio Santamaria in Louis Vuitton, jewelry Crivelli: A sophisticated men’s look.
- Milena Mancini in Raquel Diniz: A standout ensemble.
- Ludovica Nasti in Emporio Armani: A youthful and chic appearance.
Other notable attendees included Francesco Gheghi in Emporio Armani, Aurora Quattrocchi in Giorgio Armani, Matthew Modine in Corneliani, Carlotta Gamba in Dior, and Piera Detassis.
