The 81st edition of the Venice Film Festival is poised to commence with a touch of Hollywood glamour as it hosts the world premiere of “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” on Wednesday. The much-anticipated sequel to Tim Burton’s 1988 cult classic “Beetlejuice” promises to bring a wave of nostalgia and excitement to the historic city. The film’s release marks a grand kick-off to the festival, which will see numerous stars gracing the red carpet, including Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Jenna Ortega, Catherine O’Hara, and Monica Bellucci.
“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” a Warner Bros. production, revolves around the Deetz family, who return to their country home following the death of Charles Deetz. Winona Ryder reprises her role as Lydia, but this time she’s a mother to a teenage daughter named Astrid, played by Jenna Ortega, who gained fame through her role in Netflix’s hit series “Wednesday.” In a narrative twist that echoes the original film, Astrid uncovers a mysterious model city in the attic, inadvertently unleashing Michael Keaton’s whimsical and mischievous spirit, Beetlejuice, once more.
Despite being presented out of competition, the premiere of “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” promises to attract substantial attention as it sets the tone for the bustling 10-day festival. The history-laden Lido, a barrier island across the Venetian lagoon that has served as the festival’s venue since 1932, will once again be the epicenter of cinematic celebration and critique.
The festival is set to feature a bevy of high-profile premieres and appearances. Later in the week, the silver screen icons George Clooney and Brad Pitt will walk the red carpet for the out-of-competition premiere of “Wolfs.” Furthermore, the event will draw to a close on September 7th with the screening of Kevin Costner’s “Horizon: An American Saga—Chapter 2.” This grand finale will segue into the much-anticipated awards ceremony where the Golden Lion, among other prestigious accolades, will be bestowed upon standout filmmakers and actors.
Among the films competing for the coveted Golden Lion, several are already generating buzz. Todd Phillips’ sequel “Joker: Folie à Deux,” featuring Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix, is one such contender.
. Additionally, Pablo Larraín’s biopic “Maria,” starring Angelina Jolie as the famed opera singer Maria Callas, promises to be a standout. Halina Reijn’s erotic thriller “Babygirl,” starring Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson, is also in the fray, alongside Luca Guadagnino’s adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ novel “Queer,” with Daniel Craig in a leading role. Pedro Almodóvar’s foray into English-language cinema, “The Room Next Door,” starring Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton, is another highly anticipated entry.
This year’s festival boasts an impressive lineup of both English and world cinema, reflecting a rich tapestry of artistic expression and storytelling from around the globe. Attendees and cinephiles can look forward to a diverse array of genres and narratives, from biographical dramas and psychological thrillers to romantic sagas and thought-provoking documentaries.
The Venice Film Festival has a storied tradition of serving as a launchpad for films that go on to achieve critical acclaim and commercial success. Past editions have debuted films that later soared at the Oscars and other international awards. This year’s lineup, with its blend of Hollywood blockbusters and avant-garde independent films, continues that legacy.
In addition to the cinematic showcases, the festival serves as a prime networking ground for filmmakers, producers, and critics. Panel discussions, Q&A sessions, and masterclasses will feature some of the industry’s most respected figures, offering insights into their creative processes and the current trends shaping the film industry.
As the opening day draws near, excitement is palpable both within the city of Venice and among film enthusiasts worldwide. The premiere of “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is set to be a highlight, marrying a sense of nostalgia with new beginnings as the film festival embarks on yet another memorable edition.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, the Venice Film Festival remains a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the global love of cinema. It celebrates not just the films but the communal experience of coming together to laugh, cry, and reflect upon the diverse stories that define the human experience.
