Luca Guadagnino to Receive Special Award at Venice Film Festival

Luca Guadagnino, the Italian film director known for his films "Challengers" and "Call Me By My Name," is set to receive a special award at the upcoming 83rd Venice International Film Festival. The Cartier Glory to the Filmmaker Award will honor Guadagnino for his original contributions to the contemporary film industry. The ceremony will take place on Tuesday, September 8, prior to the screening of his new documentary, "Joie de vivre."

In accepting the prestigious honor, Guadagnino expressed his gratitude, stating that receiving such recognition for his craft is an ambition he never imagined, especially in the company of other esteemed filmmakers who have received this award before. According to Alberto Barbera, Director of the Venice Film Festival, the Glory to the Filmmaker Award celebrates Guadagnino's ability to transform his curiosity into creative freedom, defying alignment with any single school or movement.

The director has consistently maintained a unique voice, working across various genres while preserving a deeply Italian identity in his portrayals.

Guadagnino's filmography spans a wide range of genres, including melodrama, horror, coming-of-age stories, and psychological thrillers, as evidenced by his previous works at the Lido, such as "After the Hunt," "Queer," and "Bones and All" (which won the Silver Lion for Best Director). He is no stranger to awards, with "Call Me By Your Name" receiving a nomination for Best Picture at the Oscars.

Other notable recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award at this year's festival include George Clooney, while Maggie Gyllenhaal will serve as the head of the jury, alongside Kaouther Ben Hania and Daniel Blumberg.