Insights

The Venice 2024 film festival showcased a diverse range of films and performances, setting the stage for a competitive awards season in 2025. Notable performances included Daniel Craig as a gay writer in Luca Guadagnino's 'Queer', and Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton in Pedro Almodóvar's first US film. Joaquin Phoenix reprised his role in 'Joker: Folie à Deux', which received mixed reviews regarding its tone and character usage. The festival highlighted the intensity of acting, with many performances drawing comparisons to the works of Ingmar Bergman. Swinton's portrayal of a terminally ill ex-war correspondent and Moore's compelling performance are expected to resonate with awards voters. Angelina Jolie's role as an opera legend also garnered attention for its complexity and emotional depth. The Venice festival is known for its influence on the Academy Awards, and this year's edition was no exception. Films that resonate with audiences at Venice often gain momentum for Oscar nominations, while those that do not may struggle to recover. The presence of high-profile stars in unique roles adds to the anticipation surrounding the upcoming awards season. As the festival concluded, it became clear that the performances and films presented have set a high bar for the competition ahead. With the Golden Lion winner and other standout performances, the Venice festival has provided a significant boost to the Oscar aspirations of many involved.