The 83rd Venice International Film Festival has opened on the Lido, beginning an 11-day programme of world premieres, major stars and awards-season contenders that runs from September 2 through September 12.
A festival built around filmmakers
Organised by La Biennale di Venezia and directed by Alberto Barbera, Venice is the world’s oldest international film festival. Its central competition awards the Golden Lion, with the 2026 jury led by actor and filmmaker Maggie Gyllenhaal.
This year’s programme includes new work by Martin McDonagh, Florian Zeller, Danny Boyle, Werner Herzog and Hirokazu Kore-eda. Reuters reported that George Clooney, Robert Pattinson, John Malkovich, Penélope Cruz and Rooney Mara were among the stars expected on the red carpet.
Opening film and major contenders
Danny Boyle’s “Ink,” adapted from the stage play about Rupert Murdoch’s acquisition of The Sun, opened the festival. Guy Pearce plays Murdoch, with Jack O’Connell and Claire Foy also in the cast.
The programme combines high-profile narrative films with documentaries and work from established international auteurs. Venice’s position early in the autumn calendar makes it an important launch platform for films seeking global distribution and awards attention.
Why Venice matters
A strong reception at Venice can shape critical conversation months before major industry awards. However, festival acclaim does not guarantee commercial success; theatrical distribution, reviews and audience response after the premiere remain decisive.
The festival will announce its competition prizes on September 12. Until then, attention will shift daily as premieres introduce new films and jurors assess the full selection.
