Penélope Cruz Sobs and Kisses Javier Bardem as ‘Bunker’ Dazzles Venice With Record 15.5-Minute Ovation

Venice, Italy (AP) - A collection of notable movies is set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival on Tuesday, including Alex Gibney's documentary about Elon Musk, a psychological thriller starring Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem, and Casey Affleck's drama on grief and compassion. Gibney's "Musk," which runs nearly four hours with a break, is a deep dive into the life of the world's richest man and examination of his power and sway.

The filmmaker, known for profiling influential figures like Enron and Elizabeth Holmes, initially sought an interview with Musk but was unsuccessful. His investigation, however, led him to a different portrayal of Musk, one that challenges the "myth of Elon Musk as a modern Leonardo da Vinci." The film, due in U.S. theaters in October, will compete for the prestigious Golden Lion award.

In contrast, Cruz and Bardem headline Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem's psychological thriller "Bunker," directed by Florian Zeller. The film follows an architect who builds a survival bunker for a billionaire, a decision that impacts his marriage. Zeller tailors the story to his stars, exploring themes of fear, ecological threats, inequality, and individualism through the lens of their relationship.

"Bunker" joins other contenders like "Wild Horse Nine" and "Ink" in competition for awards. Casey Affleck's independent film "Company" also debuts at the festival. As an intimate exploration of grief and compassion, Affleck's directorial debut follows a mysterious woman crashing a holiday gathering and delves into a moral debate at its core.

Affleck's children Atticus and Indiana lend their talents to the film, alongside seasoned actors Nick Nolte and Ben Mendelsohn. Like "Bunker," "Company" competes for the Golden Lion and has a chance to qualify for Venice screening in 2026.