Dafne (2019)
A quietly luminous Italian drama about grief, resilience, and the unexpected strength found in the most open of hearts.
Dafne - Movie Information
- Release Year: 2019
- Directed by: Federico Bondi
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Runtime: 1h 34m
- Original Language: Italian
- Spoken Languages: Italian
- Release Date (Theatrical): March 21, 2019 (Italy)
- Production Companies: Vivo Film, RAI
- Production Countries: Italy
Dafne - Plot
Dafne has recently lost her mother – and Luigi his wife – in an accident. But whilst this 30-year-old, who was born with Down's syndrome, is still managing to master her life with verve after the terrible disaster, her father sinks into a depression. It will take all the energy Dafne can muster to help him get back on his feet. Fortunately, headstrong Dafne happens to have a lot of it up her sleeve.
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Dafne - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Federico Bondi
Main Cast
- Stefania Casini
- Antonio Piovanelli
- Carolina Raspanti
- Bruno Cariello
Writers
- Federico Bondi
Dafne - FAQs
What is Dafne about?
Dafne follows a vibrant 30-year-old woman with Down syndrome who loses her mother in an accident. While her father spirals into grief, Dafne becomes the unlikely emotional anchor of the family, drawing on her remarkable resilience and warmth to help him find his way back to life.
Is Dafne based on a true story?
Yes, Dafne is rooted in real life. Director Federico Bondi drew inspiration from his own relationship with a woman named Dafne, whom he had known for years. The film grew out of genuine affection and close observation, giving it an authenticity that feels deeply personal rather than scripted.
Where can I watch Dafne online?
You can check current streaming availability for Dafne on JustWatch, which tracks all platforms offering the film in your region — whether for rental, purchase, or subscription streaming.
Who plays Dafne in the film?
Carolina Raspanti plays the title role of Dafne. Her performance is widely regarded as the heart of the film — natural, funny, and deeply moving. Raspanti herself has Down syndrome, which lends the portrayal an extraordinary authenticity that critics and audiences found genuinely remarkable.
How was Dafne received by critics?
Dafne earned strong critical praise, particularly for Carolina Raspanti's lead performance and Federico Bondi's restrained, tender direction. The film won the Silver Bear for Best Actor at the Berlin International Film Festival in 2019, a rare and celebrated recognition for a performance of this kind.
Did Dafne win any awards?
Yes — Dafne made history at the 2019 Berlin International Film Festival, where Antonio Piovanelli won the Silver Bear for Best Actor. The film also received widespread festival attention across Europe, cementing its reputation as one of the most quietly powerful Italian films of recent years.
What are films similar to Dafne?
If Dafne moved you, consider The Peanut Butter Falcon, The Eighth Day, or Where Hope Grows — all films that explore disability, family, and resilience with warmth and humanity. Mia madre and The Memory Keeper's Daughter also share Dafne's quiet emotional depth and focus on grief and connection.
Who directed Dafne and what is their style?
Federico Bondi directed Dafne, his debut feature film. He brings a documentary-like intimacy to the story, favoring naturalistic performances and unhurried observation over dramatic contrivance. His approach trusts the audience completely, letting small gestures and quiet moments carry the full emotional weight of the narrative.
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