Jenny De Nucci: "Acting doesn't have to be an all-consuming passion" Interview with the actress of "Ti respiro"

On July 22, at the Giffoni Film Festival, Jenny De Nucci took the stage to present her short film titled "Ti Respiro". Now a familiar and recognizable face in Italian television and cinema, Jenny, at just 25 years old, is a steady presence. From “Il Collegio” to “Un passo dal cielo”, and “Sul più bello”, the actress is ready to grow more and more. This short film also marks her first experience as an executive producer. We sat down with her for a quick chat, directly from Giffoni. Here's what she told us.

Interview with Jenny De Nucci

In the short film "Ti Respiro", you play Mila, an actress and influencer who chooses isolation after a loss. How much of Jenny is in Mila, and how did you prepare to play such a fragile and layered character?

There’s a lot of Mila in Jenny. I'm someone who feels things deeply. Some say even too much, but over time I’ve learned there’s no such thing as “too much” when it comes to emotions. I wanted to bring to the screen deep dramatic tones that are truly part of me, and that I’ve had to learn to live with. Therapy over the years helped me understand that grief isn’t only about the loss of a person. It can be the end of a relationship, a friendship, or even moving homes. I’m glad I chose to explore such a universal theme.

You also served as executive producer: how was it managing both acting and producing? What kind of freedom or responsibility did that bring on set?

It was a very important journey of discovery. Until now, I had always "just" acted in the projects I was part of, which is, let’s be honest, a very privileged position within a production. For the first time, I became aware of costs, logistics, and the cool head you need to keep things running. I always joke that I aged 25 years to keep up with everything. But honestly, I had so much fun. The best part was having decision-making power, being able to sit behind the monitors and say, “I like this,” or “I don’t like that.”

"Ti Respiro" deals with pain, isolation, but also a strange form of communication. What do you hope the viewer takes away from the film?

I hope people come away with the thought that everyone has the right to face difficult times in their own way. Like Mila, I tend to retreat from the world when I’m not okay. I put my phone on do not disturb and just try to live my days. Everyone is entitled to process pain in whatever way feels right to them.

Looking back on this experience, what’s the biggest lesson "Ti Respiro" has taught you, both personally and professionally?

The biggest lesson it taught me is to stop believing the labels people stick on you. I used to believe them, but now, seeing the direction this short film is taking, I no longer do. Often because of my social media presence, people underestimate what I’m capable of or what I might become. I used to let that get to me—now, those comments just motivate me to do better.

When did you realize acting was your path?

Honestly, it’s always been there. Back in high school, every Monday I would go to Teatro Binario 7 in Monza to study acting. Then my first TV audition came along, and that’s where it all began.

What’s the biggest challenge for a young actress in the Italian film industry today?

I think it’s proving that actors can have multiple passions and talents beyond acting. It doesn’t have to be a passion that consumes your entire work and personal life.

In a world of constant performance, how important is it to protect your authenticity?

It’s essential. There’s always pressure to seem constantly productive, in-demand, and super busy. Honestly, that scares me. It’s an idea that weighs too heavily on the mental health of artists. You can’t expect a 20-year-old actor to star in five major films every year, or a 20-year-old musician to sell out every show on their first tour. And if you don’t, you’re seen as a failure. Of course, it’s amazing for those living that kind of career, but we need to normalize the fact that careers have highs and lows. I remember that between 2021 and 2022, I had six films released, all shot one after the other. The years after, I had to explain why I might have done only one film per year (as if that weren’t enough).

When you're not acting, what do you find more relaxing: a streaming marathon or a phone-free day?

Honestly, both, but also a day out in nature. Summer is my favorite time of year because I completely disconnect and go to Sardinia. I rarely plan any other trips. Since I travel so much during the year, there comes a moment when I just need to stay in one place. At some point, it almost becomes a necessity.

If you could trade lives for one day with a TV character, who would you choose and why?

Daenerys Targaryen from "Game of Thrones". I don’t think I even need to explain why. I think she’s one of the best characters of all time.

What’s next for you?

Right now, I’m focusing on vacation, and I’m perfectly fine with that. In September, I’ll start recording the third season of my podcast “Uno di quei giorni che”. As for the rest… I’m too superstitious to reveal anything.