Welcome to the Venice Film Festival!
Get ready for the glitz and glamour as some of Hollywood’s biggest stars like George Clooney, Angelina Jolie, Lady Gaga, and Brad Pitt, prepare to grace the Venice Film Festival this week. While the celebs add to the star-studded affair, the real focus will be on the films showcased at the festival. Often considered a launchpad for awards season, Venice, which runs from Aug. 28 through Sept. 7, sets the stage for the films that will dominate conversations leading up to the Oscars in March.
This year’s lineup offers a mix of blockbuster Hollywood movies like “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” “Horizon: An American Saga—Chapter 2,” and “Wolfs,” alongside intriguing films from talented filmmakers around the globe. With a diverse range of offerings, it’s best to keep an open mind and explore as much as possible to discover hidden gems. Here are 10 films that are generating excitement at the Venice Film Festival:
1. “Joker: Folie à Deux” (Sept. 4)
No matter which side of the “Joker” discourse you were on five years ago, the anticipation for the sequel at Venice is palpable. “Joker: Folie à Deux” promises a fresh and creative take on the iconic character, with a dystopian musical twist that is set to captivate audiences. Director Todd Phillips is back to deliver a bold and daring cinematic experience that is sure to make waves.
2. “Maria” (Aug. 29)
Chilean filmmaker Pablo Larraín collaborates with screenwriter Steven Knight and actress Angelina Jolie to bring the story of opera singer Maria Callas to the screen in “Maria.” The film explores the life of the enigmatic soprano, known for her tumultuous affair with Aristotle Onassis. Larraín’s work promises a captivating portrayal of one of classical music’s most iconic figures.
3. “Queer” (Sept. 3)
Director Luca Guadagnino presents “Queer,” an adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ novel, featuring a mesmerizing performance by Daniel Craig. The film follows an American expat’s journey in Mexico City, delving into themes of obsession and desire. Guadagnino’s immersive storytelling is set to enrapture audiences at Venice.
4. “The Room Next Door” (Sept. 2)
Acclaimed director Pedro Almodóvar makes his English-language debut with “The Room Next Door,” starring Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton. The film promises an intimate exploration of complex family dynamics, with Almodóvar’s signature style infusing every frame with depth and emotion.
5. “Babygirl” (Aug. 30)
Dutch filmmaker Halina Reijn delivers a thrilling cinematic experience with “Babygirl,” featuring a powerhouse cast led by Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson. The erotic thriller explores the dynamics of power and desire in a captivating narrative that is sure to leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
6. “The Brutalist” (Sept. 1)
Director Brady Corbet presents “The Brutalist,” a sweeping drama that follows architect László Toth and his wife Erzsébet on a transformative journey from Europe to America. Featuring a stellar cast led by Adrien Brody and Felicity Jones, the film promises a poignant exploration of love, ambition, and legacy.
7. “Youth (Homecoming)” (Sept. 6)
Wang Bing’s documentary “Youth (Homecoming)” delves into the lives of migrant workers in China’s textile factories, offering a poignant and raw portrayal of their struggles and resilience. The film is a testament to the human spirit and the power of storytelling to shed light on important social issues.
8. “April” (Sept. 5)
Georgian filmmaker Dea Kulumbegashvili’s “April” tells the story of OB-GYN Nina in rural Georgia, challenging societal norms and facing backlash for her choices. The film is a powerful exploration of morality and ethics, sure to spark meaningful conversations among viewers.
9. “The Order” (Aug. 31)
Producer and star Jude Law leads the cast of “The Order,” a gripping crime thriller set in the 1980s, exploring themes of extremism and justice. Directed by Justin Kurzel, the film promises a thrilling cinematic experience that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
10. “Harvest” (Sept. 3)
Athina Rachel Tsangari’s adaptation of the Jim Crace novel in “Harvest” transports viewers to a medieval English village, where a tale of intrigue and injustice unfolds. The film promises a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and society, with standout performances from the cast.
BONUS: “Disclaimer” (Aug. 29)
While not a film, the upcoming AppleTV+ series “Disclaimer” from Alfonso Cuarón, starring Cate Blanchett and Kevin Kline, promises a thrilling and psychological narrative that blurs the lines between reality and fiction. The series is set to captivate audiences with its intriguing premise and stellar performances.
With an exciting lineup of films and stellar talent, the 2024 Venice Film Festival is shaping up to be an unforgettable cinematic experience. Stay tuned for more coverage and updates from the festival at https://apnews.com/hub/venice-film-festival.
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