By Mira W.
The Italian cinema stage has a new star emerging, and her name is Margherita Pantaleo. At only thirteen, this remarkable young actress is already making waves with her notable role in Gabriele Muccino’s film, “Le cose non dette,” which is now being screened in 352 theaters across Italy. This film, rich in emotional resonance and complex character dynamics, has positioned Margherita as one of the industry’s rising talents.
With a childhood rooted in the arts, Margherita’s start into acting began long before her professional debut. Growing up in a family that appreciated the arts, she was exposed to the world of film from an early age. The daughter of Adriano Pantaleo, a well-known figure in Italian cinema, Margherita spent her childhood on various film sets, learning about the intricacies of storytelling and character development. “I grew up on set with my father, surrounded by creativity and inspiration,” she recalls. “It was only natural for me to gravitate toward acting.”
Her first significant opportunity came at the tender age of thirteen when she landed a role in Muccino’s previous work. This pivotal moment set the stage for her to explore her passion fully. “Acting has always been a way for me to express myself and connect with others,” she remarked, highlighting her deep-seated passion for storytelling.
Margherita in the role of Vittoria: The Heart of “Le cose non dette”
In “Le cose non dette,” Margherita portrays Vittoria, a thirteen-year-old girl navigating the complexities of family relationships and her burgeoning identity. The film follows her parents, Carlo and Elisa, played by Stefano Accorsi and Miriam Leone, respectively, as they grapple with their own personal and familial challenges. Vittoria finds herself at the center of this emotional labyrinth, serving as a crucial link between her parents, who are struggling with their own disconnect.
“The character of Vittoria is so relatable to many teenagers today,” Margherita says. “She is on a path of self-discovery while trying to make sense of the adult world around her.” Vittoria’s longing for connection and understanding reflects the universal adolescent experience, where the desire to be heard often clashes with the complexities of adult relationships.
The film highlights how family dynamics can change and evolve, often revealing unspoken tensions and desires. Margherita explains her connection to Vittoria: “I see so much of myself in her. We both seek validation and understanding, especially from our parents. Vittoria’s journey resonates with anyone who has ever felt overlooked or misunderstood.”
Working under the direction of Gabriele Muccino has been both a privilege and a transformative experience for Margherita. Known for his ability to evoke raw emotions and create relatable narratives, Muccino provided a unique opportunity for Margherita to go deeply into her character. “Initially, I felt a bit tense and intimidated by the thought of performing alongside such outstanding actors,” she admits. “But once I met them, they welcomed me warmly and made me feel at home.”
The collaborative atmosphere on set allowed Margherita to explore her character authentically. “Gabriele encouraged me to understand what Vittoria was feeling while also helping me identify my own emotions,” she shares. “His guidance was invaluable, especially during the more intense scenes.” The bond that formed between the cast was palpable, creating a supportive network that allowed for vulnerability and authenticity in their performances.
“Le cose non dette” is a drama about love, loss, and the unspoken bonds that often define our relationships. The story becomes interesting as Carlo and Elisa, searching for new inspiration in their lives, take a trip to Tangier, Morocco. However, their escape serves to illuminate the cracks in their marriage and parenthood, and as secrets surface, the group must confront uncomfortable truths.
“The film captures the essence of how sometimes we don’t truly know the people closest to us,” Margherita explains. As Vittoria, she becomes entwined in the unraveling dynamics between her parents and their friends, adding a layer of complexity to her character’s development. With the unexpected arrival of Blu, Carlo’s young student and lover, the stakes rise significantly, bringing to light not just the challenges of infidelity but also the generational rifts and misunderstandings that can exist between parents and their children.
“The subplot surrounding Blu and the older generation’s connection to the younger characters serves as a commentary on how adults often fail to understand the very real struggles of today’s youth,” Margherita elaborates.
Filming took place in the breathtaking city of Tangier, Morocco, providing a visually stunning backdrop that mirrors the film’s emotional landscape. Margherita was particularly in love with the colourful culture and stunning landscapes of Tangier. “The colors, sounds, and smells of the city are so rich. It truly felt like I was living in a dream,” she says enthusiastically.
Her experiences in Morocco were not only cinematographic but also deeply personal. “I made lifelong friends during this shoot, and the culture enriched my understanding of storytelling,” she explains. She recalls joyfully exploring the local markets, tasting traditional Moroccan dishes, and immersing herself in the community. “I believe that every culture has its own stories to tell, and Tangier certainly shared many with me,” she adds with a smile.
This cultural immersion significantly broadened her perspective as an actress, enabling her to draw upon diverse influences in her performance. “It was a unique opportunity for learning, and I cherish every moment I spent there.”
As we discussed her aspirations, it became clear that Margherita possesses a rare combination of talent, ambition, and humility. “I hope to challenge myself continually and take on roles that push my boundaries,” she shares. “Working with directors like Tim Burton is a dream of mine. I admire his unique storytelling style and how he brings fantastical elements to life.”
She understands the importance of continued growth and exploration in her craft. “I want to embody characters that resonate with audiences, characters that make them reflect on their own lives,” she asserts passionately. Margherita’s dedication to her passion is evidenced by her rigorous preparation process; before each scene, she engages in a personal routine of reading and rehearsing to ensure she is fully grounded in her character.
When asked about the lessons she has learned from her experiences in the film industry, Margherita reflects thoughtfully. “Every role teaches me the importance of listening and observing—not just within acting but in life as well,” she says. “In portraying Vittoria, I learned the significance of truly listening and paying attention to those around me.”
“If I were to write a letter to my future self,” she muses, “I would say: ‘Never stop believing in yourself, always put in the effort, seek happiness in the present, and cherish every moment, both on and off set.’”
As “Le cose non dette” will hit the Italian theaters from March, Margherita Pantaleo, in her portrayal of Vittoria showcases not only her exceptional acting abilities but also her understanding of the complexities of human emotions and relationships. With a bright future ahead, Margherita is poised to become a significant voice in the world of cinema, one that resonates with the struggles and aspirations of both her generation and those to come.
