It’s that time of the year again! With a distinct blend of melancholy and excitement, we acknowledge the Venice Film Festival’s return, signaling the inevitable conclusion of summer but also the beginning of a cinematic feast for audiences worldwide.
Murmurs of concern surfaced across the film industry in light of the recent Hollywood strikes, with queries about how this would affect the remainder of the year, from film production to festival schedules. However, the strikes’ effects won’t be seen just yet, and the 2023 Venice Film Festival is brimming with cinematic treasures waiting to be explored.
Although audiences won’t catch a glimpse of Luca Guadagnino’s latest work, “Challengers,” or the much-anticipated sequel “Dune: Part Two,” there’s still plenty of movie magic to behold. The festival features a stellar lineup of auteur directors, with heavyweights like Wes Anderson, David Fincher, Michael Mann, Ava DuVernay, and Sofia Coppola gracing the event with their new films. Other intriguing titles to keep an eye out for include Roman Polanski’s “The Palace” and Jack Huston’s “Day of the Fight.”
The star-studded cast on the red carpet might be scantier than usual due to strike-related issues, but never fear! Countless talented directors and writers will attend the festival. This cinematic extravaganza will run from August 30 through September 9, 2023.
One of the must-watch films is Harmony Korine’s “Aggro Dr1ft.” The 80-minute film features Spanish actor Jordi Molla and American rapper Travis Scott. The surreally psychedelic plot revolves around a hardened hitman navigating Miami’s sinister underworld.
The inclusion of “Bastarden,” translated as “The Promise Land,” is turning heads, marking the reunion of Mads Mikkelsen and Nikolaj Arcel since “A Royal Affair.” In this project, Mikkelsen portrays the bastard son of a maid and a nobleman, carrying an impossible task for King Frederik V.
In “La Bete,” a futuristic society considers emotions threatening, leading the protagonist Gabrielle to purify her DNA using a unique device. However, complications arise when she develops a strong rapport with Louis. This film, penned and directed by Bertrand Bonello, stars Léa Seydoux and George MacKay.
Receiving a considerable amount of anticipation is the biographical movie “Maestro,” focusing on Leonard Bernstein and his relationship with Felicia Montealegre. Originally a Martin Scorsese project, the reins were passed on to Bradley Cooper, who is now the film’s co-writer, producer, and director, and also portrays the legendary composer. The cast also includes Carey Mulligan, Matt Bomer, Maya Hawke, Sarah Silverman, and Miriam Shor.
The film’s official teaser can be viewed here:
