At the 2023 Venice Film Festival opening, three actors arrived on the red carpet wearing matching Saint Laurent gowns. The choice drew attention from fashion observers and fuelled discussions about red carpet uniformity and personal style. Milena Smith, Vittorio Zunino Celotto, and Cristina Fogazzi stepped out in long black dresses paired with gloves from Saint Laurent’s Pre-Autumn 2023 collection, each accessorizing with distinct jewelry that preserved the unity of the look while adding a personal touch. The result was a striking blend of cohesion and individuality that resonated across fashion media and social platforms. [Vogue]
The 80th edition of the Venice Film Festival showcased a curated slate of high-profile premieres. Among the most anticipated works were Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla and Bradley Cooper’s Maestro, both drawing early praise and strong festival buzz. New entries from renowned directors such as Yorgos Lanthimos, Michael Mann, and Ava DuVernay were also featured, highlighting the event’s continued appeal to cinephiles and industry professionals alike. The festival commenced on August 30 with Comandante, a period drama from Edoardo De Angelis centered on Italian historical perspectives and led by Pierfrancesco Favino. [Vogue]
Behind the scenes, the festival carried the weight of broader industry tensions. The ongoing strikes by SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America have cast a shadow over the event, influencing attendance and the nature of promotions and red carpet appearances. While the Lido is thousands of miles away from Hollywood, the ripple effects of these labor actions were felt in the festival’s operation, with some nominees unable to participate in person and others adjusting their publicity plans. This backdrop shaped conversations among attendees, press, and fans, underscoring how global events intersect with cinema on the world stage. [Vogue]
Industry voices and analysts weighed in on how the strikes might shape the festival’s momentum, including potential shifts in scheduling, promotional strategies, and press engagement. Observers noted that Venice’s platform often serves as a barometer for the year ahead in cinema, offering a snapshot of both artistic direction and industry resilience amid challenges. As press rooms filled and screening rooms buzzed, the festival maintained its reputation as a crossroads for European and international film talent, with critics parsing performances, directing choices, and the evolving conversation around labor and creative labor practices in contemporary cinema. [Vogue]