The 82nd Venice International Film Festival kicks off in just two days, running from 27 August to 6 September 2025 on Venice’s Lido. As one of the world’s most prestigious and stylish film festivals, Venice sets the tone for awards season—and this year’s edition is shaping up to be an exciting blend of auteur cinema, fashion-focused documentaries, and high-profile red carpet moments. Here’s everything to know before the festival begins.
Who’s Leading the Jury?
This year’s jury president is acclaimed American director Alexander Payne, best known for films such as The Holdovers, Sideways, and Nebraska. His involvement suggests a strong focus on character-driven, emotionally resonant storytelling—possibly hinting at the kinds of films that could take home this year’s Golden Lion for Best Film.
Opening Film: La Grazia by Paolo Sorrentino
The festival will open with Paolo Sorrentino’s new film, La Grazia. Returning to the Venice spotlight after the international success of The Great Beauty, Sorrentino’s latest work stars Toni Servillo and Anna Ferzetti in a reflective, visually rich love story set in Naples.
Most Anticipated Films of Venice 2025
A number of high-profile premieres are generating early buzz—especially those that sit at the intersection of fashion and film:
- Marc by Sofia – An intimate, unconventional portrait of Marc Jacobs, crafted by Sofia Coppola to capture the genius and singular universe of the iconic American designer.
- After the Hunt – Luca Guadagnino returns to Venice with Julia Roberts in a suspenseful academic drama. Jonathon Anderson is said to have costumed the film.
- Father Mother Sister Brother – Directed by Jim Jarmusch, this ensemble drama stars Cate Blanchett, Tom Waits, and Adam Driver. The film reportedly explores fractured relationships and family memory..
Other major titles screening this year include:
- Bugonia by Yorgos Lanthimos, starring Emma Stone
- Jay Kelly by Noah Baumbach, starring George Clooney
- Frankenstein by Guillermo del Toro
- The Testament of Ann Lee by Mona Fastvold, starring Amanda Seyfried
- A House of Dynamite by Kathryn Bigelow
Fashion on the Red Carpet
The Venice Film Festival is also a major fixture on the fashion calendar. With appearances expected from Julia Roberts, Angelina Jolie, Emma Stone, and Cate Blanchett, the red carpet is likely to feature a combination of high-concept couture and minimalist elegance. Fashion fans will especially want to watch for the premiere of Marc by Sofia, where director and subject may both deliver fashion-forward looks that nod to their decades-long creative friendship.
Golden Lion & Awards Timeline
The Golden Lion, the festival’s highest honour, will be awarded on Saturday, 6 September 2025, during the official closing ceremony. In addition to Best Film, other major prizes include the Silver Lion (Best Director), Volpi Cups for Best Actor and Actress, and the Special Jury Prize. The Honorary Golden Lions for lifetime achievement will go to Werner Herzog and Kim Novak, paying tribute to their enduring contributions to cinema.