Everything you need to know about the 2026 Venice Film Festival

The 83rd edition of the Venice Film Festival is set to begin on Wednesday, drawing Hollywood's biggest stars to Venice, Italy. Known as one of the world's most prestigious film festivals, it is second only to Cannes and is the oldest in the lineup. The festival, established in 1932, has seen notable films like "Grand Hotel" and "It Happened One Night" in its early years.

The Golden Lion award, the festival's highest honor, was first given out in 1949. Venetian films have a rich history, winning the award multiple times, including "Rashômon" in 1951, "Belle de jour" in 1967, "Au revoir les enfants" in 1987, "Brokeback Mountain" in 2005, "Somewhere" in 2010, and "Poor Things" in 2023. The festival runs until September 12th, with opening night featuring Danny Boyle's "Ink," adapted from the stage play about Rupert Murdoch's early life, starring Guy Pearce, Jack O'Connell, and Claire Foy.