Hey there, film buffs! 🎬✨ Are you ready for the Venice Film Festival 2025? Set to kick off from August 27 to September 6 on the stunning island of Lido, this year promises to be nothing short of spectacular. If you’re a lover of cinema and glamour, trust me—you won’t want to miss a single moment of this iconic festival!
What’s happening at the festival?
This year, we’re thrilled to welcome American director Alexander Payne as the head of the jury for its 82nd edition. You might recognize him from gems like Sideways and Nebraska, both of which showcase that unique storytelling flair we all adore. 🎥 In his own words, he acknowledges the festival’s rich history and expresses his excitement for the opportunity to be part of it. Isn’t it thrilling to see someone so passionate about film take the reins?
Joining Payne is an eclectic mix of filmmakers and actors from around the globe. We’re talking about talents like Stéphane Brizé, Cristian Mungiu, and actresses Zhao Tao and Fernanda Torres. Plus, the Orizzonti international jury will be led by the brilliant Julia Ducournau. Who else thinks this lineup is giving major vibes? 🙌
Star-studded premieres and notable awards
Now, let’s get to the juicy part! Italian director Paolo Sorrentino is making a grand return to the Lido with his latest film, La Grazia, featuring the talented Toni Servillo and Anna Ferzetti. Although details about the plot remain under wraps, we know it’s a love story—just what we need to spice things up! Last time he graced the festival, he walked away with the Silver Lion for The Hand of God. Talk about pressure to deliver again!
On the awards front, German filmmaker Werner Herzog is set to receive an honorary award for his incredible body of work, including iconic films like Fitzcarraldo and Grizzly Man. And let’s not forget the legendary Kim Novak, who will also be honored for her contributions to cinema. If you haven’t checked out her films with Alfred Hitchcock, you’re seriously missing out!
What films are we looking forward to?
The festival is brimming with exciting premieres! Guillermo del Toro’s take on Frankenstein, featuring Oscar Isaac and Jacob Elordi, is something I can’t wait to see. Plus, Yorgos Lanthimos is bringing us Bugonia with the fabulous Emma Stone. And don’t even get me started on Luca Guadagnino’s After the Hunt with Julia Roberts! 😍
French filmmakers are also making their mark this year, with François Ozon adapting Albert Camus’ The Stranger and Valérie Donzelli’s À pied d’œuvre, starring Bastien Bouillon and Virginie Ledoyen. And just when you think it couldn’t get better, Jacques Audiard’s series adaptation of Un prophète will be among the highlights out of competition. So, what are you most excited to see? Drop your thoughts below! 💬
With such a stellar lineup, the Venice Film Festival 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable experience for cinephiles everywhere. Let’s keep chatting about our favorite films and directors as the festival approaches!