The 81st edition of the Venice Film Festival is poised to kick off in grand style with the highly anticipated world premiere of “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” on Wednesday. Setting a sensational tone for this year’s event, the red carpet will be graced by an illustrious cast including Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Jenna Ortega, Catherine O’Hara, and Monica Bellucci.
This new film is a much-awaited sequel to Tim Burton’s 1988 cult classic horror-comedy. The story revolves around the Deetz family, who find themselves returning to their old country home following the death of Charles Deetz. Lydia Deetz, portrayed once again by Winona Ryder, is no longer the morose teenager of the original film; she is now a mother to a “surly” teenage daughter named Astrid, played by Jenna Ortega. Ortega has been a rising star, notably from her role in the popular Netflix series “Wednesday.” In an echo of the past, Astrid discovers the eerie old model city in the attic, inadvertently summoning Michael Keaton’s iconic and mischievous ghoul, Beetlejuice.
“The return of Beetlejuice is not just a dive into nostalgia but a fresh exploration of characters that have grown over the decades,” said director Tim Burton. “Audiences can look forward to a mix of our classic dark humor and a new set of thrills.”
As a Warner Bros. release, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is set to debut out of competition at the festival before it opens in theatres worldwide next week. This highly anticipated premiere is set to inaugurate an energetic and star-studded 10-day event on the Lido, the barrier island across the Venetian lagoon which has been the festival’s headquarters since 1932.
Later in the week, the festival will see the return of Hollywood heavyweights George Clooney and Brad Pitt, with the out-of-competition premiere of “Wolfs.” The curtain will ultimately fall on the festival with the premiere of Kevin Costner’s “Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 2” on September 7, just before the award announcements.
This year’s competition for the prestigious Golden Lion award includes an impressive roster of films, promising to bring a dazzling array of international cinema to the fore. Among the most buzzed-about entries is Todd Phillips’ “Joker: Folie à Deux,” featuring Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix. Following the tremendous success of the first “Joker” film, anticipation is running high for this sequel, which promises to delve even deeper into the dark psyche of its main characters.
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Pablo Larraín’s cinematic take on the life of Maria Callas, titled “Maria” and starring Angelina Jolie, is another contender stirring significant anticipation. The biopic aims to offer a multifaceted portrayal of the legendary opera singer’s tumultuous life.
Adding to the excitement is Halina Reijn’s erotic thriller “Babygirl,” starring Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson. Known for her bold storytelling, Reijn is expected to captivate audiences with this provocative narrative.
The festival wouldn’t be complete without contributions from renowned filmmakers like Luca Guadagnino, who returns with an adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ novel “Queer,” featuring Daniel Craig in a principal role. Guadagnino is famed for his visually rich storytelling, as seen in films like “Call Me by Your Name” and “Suspiria.”
Not to be overlooked is Pedro Almodóvar’s first English-language film, “The Room Next Door.” Starring Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton, this film marks a significant departure for Almodóvar, known for his Spanish-language dramas. Early previews suggest that his unique directorial style remains intact, promising a visually sumptuous cinematic experience.
The Venice Film Festival has long been a vital platform for filmmakers around the world. This year’s lineup continues that tradition, showcasing a diverse array of stories and styles that cross cultural and linguistic boundaries. Whether it’s the return of beloved characters like Beetlejuice or the unveiling of fresh, new narratives, moviegoers can expect a feast of cinematic experiences.
As the festival gets underway, the Lido transforms into a bustling haven for cinephiles, journalists, and industry professionals alike. Each film screening not only highlights the artistic ambition of its creators but also contributes to the ongoing dialogue about the future of cinema.
With its blend of Hollywood glamour and international artistry, the 81st Venice Film Festival promises to be a landmark event in the cinematic calendar, offering something for every film enthusiast. From the eerie allure of “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” to the poignant narratives vying for the Golden Lion, this year’s festival is set to offer a kaleidoscope of unforgettable cinematic moments.
