This year’s Venice Film Festival concluded with its customary flair of fireworks, spritz cocktails, and a collection of Lion awards. The festival celebrated films ranging from a Hungarian drama about the study of trees to a gripping narrative set amidst an emergency response team in Gaza. Notably, the festival spotlighted Jacob Elordi, who portrayed the tragic monster in Guillermo del Toro’s opulent adaptation of Frankenstein, positioning him as a strong contender for next year’s Oscars.
Elordi’s performance in Frankenstein was hailed as the film’s saving grace, despite the mixed critical reception of the film itself. Critics were divided on the “bombastic” nature of the adaptation, but Elordi’s portrayal of the lonely monster seeking companionship resonated deeply. The film, featuring Oscar Isaac as Dr. Frankenstein, introduced a novel twist by allowing the creature to narrate his own perspective, a move that critics like Vulture and Indiewire praised for bringing the story to life.
Jim Jarmusch’s Surprise Win
While Frankenstein was among three Netflix films competing for the Golden Lion, it was Jim Jarmusch’s Father Mother Sister Brother that took home the top prize. The film, a nuanced exploration of familial disconnect, was a surprise winner. Jarmusch, an iconic figure in the festival circuit, crafted a film that examines the unbridgeable gaps between parents and their adult children through a series of vignettes.
The film features a star-studded cast, including Tom Waits as a scheming father and Cate Blanchett in a transformative role as a museum officer. Despite its quiet demeanor, the film’s depth resonated with audiences and critics alike, proving that sometimes the most unassuming films leave the greatest impact.
The Voice of Hind Rajab: A Harrowing Tale
Before the festival concluded, many anticipated that The Voice of Hind Rajab would claim the Golden Lion. Directed by Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania, the film recounts the true story of a young girl trapped in a bombed car in Gaza. The film’s authenticity was underscored by the use of real Palestinian actors and the actual recorded voice of the child, Hind Rajab, with her mother’s consent.
The film received significant backing from celebrity producers like Brad Pitt and Joaquin Phoenix, and its premiere was met with a record-breaking 23-minute standing ovation. Despite this, the film was awarded the Grand Jury Prize, a decision that sparked controversy and accusations of political bias avoidance from both media and festival attendees.
Other Noteworthy Films and Performances
The festival also showcased a variety of other remarkable films and performances. Hungarian director Ildiko Enyedi’s Silent Friend captivated audiences with its intertwining narratives set within a university arboretum. Luna Wedler’s performance as the first woman to enroll in the university’s science faculty earned her the Marcello Mastroianni prize for best young actor.
Gus Van Sant’s Dead Man’s Wire, a thriller set in the 1970s, also charmed audiences, with its anti-establishment themes resonating strongly. The festival’s best director award went to Ben Safdie for The Smashing Machine, featuring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as an MMA professional.
Netflix’s other entries included Kathryn Bigelow’s A House of Dynamite and Noah Baumbach’s Jay Kelly, both of which garnered attention for their intense storytelling and ensemble casts. Meanwhile, Amazon’s After the Hunt and Focus Features’ Bugonia added to the festival’s rich tapestry of cinematic offerings.
Venice’s Unique Charm
While Cannes remains the preeminent film festival globally, Venice continues to uphold its commitment to cinematic glamour and artistry. This year’s festival was a testament to its enduring appeal, offering a diverse array of films that captivated audiences and critics alike. As the dust settles, the films and performances celebrated at Venice are poised to make waves in the upcoming awards season, with Jacob Elordi and The Voice of Hind Rajab leading the charge.
