The 81st Venice International Film Festival is set to enchant audiences from August 28 to September 7, 2024. Held on the scenic Lido di Venezia, this prestigious festival will showcase an exciting array of films and star-studded events. Here’s what you need to know.
Pre-Opening Film: L’oro di Napoli (1954)
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Vittorio De Sica’s (Italy) death and the 70th anniversary of L’oro di Napoli, a special pre-opening screening will take place on August 27, 2024. The film, restored to a pristine digital 4K version, will be shown at 8:30 pm in the Sala Darsena. This classic features Eduardo De Filippo, Sophia Loren, and Totò and explores the many facets of Naples through six engaging stories.
Competition Lineup Highlights
The Competition section features a diverse lineup of films from around the globe:
- “The Room Next Door”: Directed by Pedro Almodóvar (Spain), this film promises Almodóvar’s signature storytelling.
- “Campo di Battaglia”: Gianni Amelio (Italy) presents this poignant narrative.
- “Leurs Enfants Après Eux”: A French film by Ludovic Bouckherma and Zoran Boukherma.
- “The Brutalist”: Brady Corbet (U.K.) directs this anticipated drama.
- “The Quiet Son”: French directors Delphine Coulin and Muriel Coulin deliver a compelling story.
- “Queer”: Luca Guadagnino (Italy, U.S.) offers a new exploration of identity.
- “Joker: Folie à Deux”: Todd Phillips (U.S.) continues the iconic Joker saga.
- “I’m Still Here”: Walter Salles (Brazil, France) directs this thought-provoking film.
Out of Competition and Special Screenings
The festival’s Out of Competition section includes:
- “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”: Tim Burton (U.S., U.K.) kicks off the festival with this highly anticipated opening film.
- “L’Orto Americano”: Directed by Pupi Avati (Italy), this will be the closing film.
Special screenings include:
- “Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World”: Directed by Peter Weir (U.S.).
- “Beauty Is Not a Sin”: Nicolas Winding Refn (Italy, Denmark) presents a unique visual experience.
Horizons and Horizons Extra
The Horizons section highlights emerging voices:
- “Nonostante”: Directed by Valerio Mastandrea (Italy).
- “Quiet Life”: Alexandros Avranas (France, Germany) brings a fresh narrative.
- “Carissa”: Directed by Jason Jacobs and Devon Delmar (South Africa).
Horizons Extra features:
- “September 5”: Tim Fehlbaum (Germany) offers a gripping tale.
- “The Witness”: Nader Saeivar (Germany, Austria) presents a powerful story.
Planning Your Visit
For those traveling to Venice, early booking is essential. The city’s charm, combined with the festival’s allure, makes it a sought-after destination during this period.
For more details on the full schedule and ticket information, visit the official Venice International Film Festival website.
Download the Program.
Photo Credit: La Biennale di Venezia – Foto ASAC
