Star-Studded Venice Film Festival 2023: Julia Roberts, Emma Stone, and George Clooney Lead the Lineup—But Where’s Gal Gadot and Al Pacino?

The Venice Film Festival is set to dazzle from August 27 to September 6. This year’s 82nd edition promises to be a star-studded event with an exciting lineup of films and talent.

We’re seeing some big names attend this year. Julia Roberts is making her Venice debut, and she’ll be joined by Andrew Garfield and Ayo Edebiri for Luca Guadagnino’s drama “After the Hunt.” George Clooney and Adam Sandler are also in Venice for “Jay Kelly,” where Clooney plays a star caught in an identity crisis.

Emma Stone is bringing her latest work, “Bugonia,” to the festival, teaming up again with Yorgos Lanthimos. Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt are set to feature in “The Smashing Machine,” which tells the story of UFC champ Mark Kerr, with Blunt playing his wife. Additionally, Jacob Elordi and Oscar Isaac will showcase Guillermo del Toro’s fresh take on “Frankenstein.” Oscar Isaac is busy, also starring in Julian Schnabel’s thriller “In The Hand of Dante.”

Netflix continues to make waves at the festival, presenting high-profile films including “Jay Kelly,” “Frankenstein,” and Kathryn Bigelow’s politically charged “A House of Dynamite.” This has been a typical move for the streaming giant in previous years.

Alberto Barbera, the festival’s artistic director, mentioned that most key cast members for selected films are expected to be present. However, Gal Gadot, who stars in “In The Hand of Dante,” will not attend. This absence comes amid controversy surrounding her role in the recent Disney film “Snow White,” which faced backlash during its promotional period.

Amid the glamour, politics will take center stage at this festival. Barbera noted planned pro-Palestinian demonstrations, scheduled for August 30. There will also be a moment of solidarity related to the film “The Voice of Hind Rajab,” which addresses the tragic death of a Palestinian girl.

Films like “The Wizard of the Kremlin” and “Notes of a True Criminal” are likely to stir political discussions. “The Wizard of the Kremlin,” featuring Jude Law, portrays Vladimir Putin’s rise. Meanwhile, Alexander Rodnyansky’s documentary critiques the Russian government’s actions amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Weather-wise, festival-goers can expect cooler temperatures this year. The forecast shows highs around the mid-70s, a welcome change from last year’s heatwave.

With a mix of glitz, important conversations, and a comfortable climate, the Venice Film Festival is ready to kick off!

For more detailed insights on the festival and its films, check out Variety.

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Julia Roberts,Venice Film Festival