The 81st Venice Film Festival opened Wednesday on the Lido with Danny Boyle's "Ink," a film detailing Rupert Murdoch's 1969 acquisition of the British tabloid "The Sun." George Clooney, a regular at the festival, is set to receive a lifetime achievement award.
Over the festival's 11-day run, a number of stars from Hollywood and beyond are expected, including Robert Pattinson and musicians Noel and Liam Gallagher. However, this year's program places a notable emphasis on geopolitical themes rather than solely on celebrity appearances.
The festival's lineup features documentaries addressing current global conflicts and issues, such as the Gaza conflict in "Naza," a film about Elon Musk titled "Musk," and "My Undesirable Friends — Part II: Exile," which focuses on independent Russian journalists reporting on the war in Ukraine. The program also includes Palestinian films and a short film examining U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Minneapolis.
Festival director Alberto Barbera told The Associated Press that many of the films submitted for consideration centered on "contemporary problems." He explained that the festival serves as an open forum for discussion and confrontation, allowing for a wide range of expressions.
Barbera also acknowledged a significant point of discussion: only one film directed by a woman is among the 21 entries competing for the festival's top prize, the Golden Lion. He described this as a "big problem" and stated that "there is a lot to do to give women the place that they deserve in cinema." While organizers reviewed numerous compelling films from female directors, Barbera noted that insufficient entries met the criteria for the main competition. He affirmed the festival's support for women seeking equal representation in the film industry.
"Ink," which stars Guy Pearce as Murdoch and Jack O'Connell as editor Larry Lamb, is adapted from James Graham's play and is considered a potential Oscar contender. Boyle, who previously directed "Trainspotting," described making "Ink" with limited resources but a dedicated ensemble cast, highlighting O'Connell as a breakout talent.
In addition to the film screenings, George Clooney will be honored with a Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement. Barbera indicated that the award aims to recognize Clooney's broader talents as an actor and filmmaker, beyond his public image. The festival will also present a lifetime achievement award to 93-year-old actress Ellen Burstyn.
The Venice Film Festival is scheduled to conclude on September 12.