The 78th edition of the world’s oldest film festival will run from September 1 to 11 and is once again directed by Alberto Barbera.
One of the most anticipated events is the world premiere of Denise Villeneuve’s star-studded sci-fi blockbuster Dune, in the presence of its cast members Timothee Chamalet, Zendaya and Oscar Isaac.
Other highlights include the premiere of the Princess Diana biopic Spencer, starring Kristen Stewart, and Ridley Scott’s The Last Duel with Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, which marks the first time the duo have written and starred together since their Oscar-winning breakout Good Will Hunting in the 1990s.
Affleck may be joined by Jennifer Lopez following the pair’s recent romantic reunion, according to local media reports.
Penelope Cruz will be present for Pedro Almodovar’s new movie Madres Paralelas, in which she stars.
True to Almodovar’s provocative style, the poster was immediately banned on Instagram for featuring a lactating nipple.
Also making an appearance will be Anya Taylor-Joy – known for her role in the hit Netflix series The Queen’s Gambit – who stars in Edgar Wright’s psychological horror film Last night in Soho.
Maggie Gyllenhaal will make her directorial debut The Last Daughter, while Jamie Lee Curtis will receive a lifetime achievement award at the festival alongside the screening of Halloween Kills.
Movies from 59 countries are being presented this year across its multiple sections.
This year’s festival, which requires all participants to have a COVID-19 green pass, will also host an international panel on Afghanistan and the situation of Afghan filmmakers and artists.
Oscar-winning director Bong Joon Ho will preside over the festival’s seven-person jury, which also includes actresses Cynthia Erivo, Sarah Gadon and Virginie Efira and directors Saverio Costanzo and Alexander Nanau.
For full details of the 2021 Venice Film Festival, visit the website.
