Since 1932
The Venice International Film Festival (Mostra Internazionale d’Arte Cinematografica di Venezia) is one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in the world. It was founded in 1932 and takes place every year from late August through early September takes place. It is not only a major cultural event, but also an important gathering for filmmakers, actors, producers, and movie enthusiasts from around the world.
In 2027
In 2027, the 84th Film Festival will take place, as always, on the Lido from September 2 to September 12, 2027.
Official website: https://www.labiennale.org/en/cinema
The Lido
The festival will take place at the Palazzo del Cinema on Lido di Venezia takes place on an island in the Venetian Lagoon, easily accessible by ferry from the city center. The red carpet in front of the historic movie theater is where many of the world’s most famous actors and directors shine and present their latest works. The entire atmosphere is characterized by glamour, art, and international attention.
Prices
The festival’s main highlight is the presentation of the Golden Lion (Leone d’Oro) for the best film of the year. The award is presented as part of the festival’s official competition, which features a selection of films from around the world. Other notable awards include the Silver Lion for Best Director, as well as various special prizes such as the award for Best Actor.
The festival consists of several competitions and sections:
Official Competition (Concorso)
This is where the year's best films are screened as they compete for the Golden Lion. This competition is the most prestigious and attracts the most attention.
Horizons (Orizzonti)
This section features a selection of innovative and experimental films that highlight new talent or unconventional storytelling methods.
Venice Classics (Venezia Classici)
This section is dedicated to cinematic heritage and features restored classics, as well as documentaries about great directors and historical films.
Venice Virtual Reality (VR)
This section showcases digital and VR projects that combine innovative technologies with art.
Famous Movies and Personalities
The festival has celebrated many important films and filmmakers. Numerous renowned directors, such as Federico Fellini, Ingmar Bergman, Alfonso Cuarón, Luca Guadagnino, and Quentin Tarantino, have presented their works there and received awards.
In recent years, there have been several particularly memorable moments, such as Alfonso Cuarón’s win of the Golden Lion for „Roma“ in 2018 or the success of „La La Land“ in 2016, which, although it did not win the Golden Lion, it was a major topic of discussion on the international stage.
Famous Guests and the Red Carpet
Every year, a host of celebrities and filmmakers flock to Venice to present their films and enjoy the glamorous events. The red carpet is a central feature of the festival, where stars such as Cate Blanchett, George Clooney, Timothée Chalamet, Al Pacino, Lady Gaga, and many others showcase their glamorous outfits.
The festival plays an important role in the international film industry, as it not only provides a platform for established filmmakers but also gives many emerging talents the opportunity to showcase their work to an international audience. It influences film criticism and can help bring films and actors into the spotlight, which can then lead to further success at other festivals or at the Academy Awards (Oscars).
Venice is the perfect setting for this international cultural event. The city’s historic buildings, picturesque canals, and romantic atmosphere lend the festival a unique charm. The festival not only offers exceptional film screenings but also the opportunity to experience Venice from a different perspective.
In addition to the film screenings, the festival also features many side events, such as panel discussions, master classes, networking events, and gala evenings. These make the festival a gathering place for professionals in the film industry.
The Venice International Film Festival is more than just a film festival—it is a major cultural event that celebrates the world of cinema, showcases new films and talent, and provides one of the most glamorous stages for filmmakers and actors. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in the art of film who wants to enjoy the special atmosphere of the lagoon city.
The Palazzo del Casino on the Lido
The Palazzo del Casino on the Lido di Venezia was built in 1930 as part of the renowned Venice Film Festival and as an elegant venue for social events and gambling. It is located in the center of the Lido, one of Venice’s most famous islands, known primarily for its beaches and the film festival.
This palazzo was the original venue for the Venice Film Festival before it was later moved to other locations. The Palazzo del Casino offers a magnificent view of the sea and is an architectural highlight on the Lido, known for its blend of neoclassical and modern styles.
The palace has a a central role in the history of the Venice Film Festival has been the setting for many films, and its glamorous atmosphere has made it an icon closely associated with international cinema. Today, it is still used for various cultural events and functions.