Get Ready to Roar: The 12 Must-See Films Premiering at the Venice Film Festival!

The cinematic world is abuzz! As the 80th Venice Film Festival rolls out its iconic red carpet, film enthusiasts and critics alike are gearing up for a spectacular showcase of global storytelling. La Biennale di Venezia, one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, is not just a stepping stone for Oscar hopefuls but a vibrant celebration of art, vision, and the magic of movies.

This year's lineup promises an intoxicating mix of star-studded biopics, thought-provoking dramas, and avant-garde masterpieces. With an array of visionary directors and powerhouse performances, these 12 films are already generating seismic waves of excitement. Prepare to be captivated as we unveil the must-see premieres that are set to define the cinematic landscape of the year!

1.

Maestro (Dir. Bradley Cooper)

Bradley Cooper returns to the director's chair and takes on the monumental task of portraying legendary composer Leonard Bernstein in "Maestro." Following his directorial triumph with "A Star Is Born," Cooper also stars as Bernstein, exploring his complex life, career, and marriage to Felicia Montealegre Cohn Bernstein (Carey Mulligan).

With Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg among its producers, this film is already tipped as a major awards contender, promising an intimate and powerful look into the life of an American icon.

2. Priscilla (Dir. Sofia Coppola)

From the unique lens of Sofia Coppola comes "Priscilla," a highly anticipated biopic delving into the life of Priscilla Presley.

Based on her memoir "Elvis and Me," the film offers an intimate glimpse into the lesser-known aspects of her relationship with Elvis Presley, from their first meeting to their tumultuous marriage. Starring Cailee Spaeny as Priscilla and Jacob Elordi as Elvis, Coppola’s signature style is expected to bring a delicate yet piercing exploration of identity, fame, and a love story shrouded in rock 'n' roll legend.

3.

Origin (Dir. Ava DuVernay)

Ava DuVernay, a filmmaker renowned for her powerful and socially conscious narratives, brings "Origin" to Venice. This ambitious work is an adaptation of Isabel Wilkerson's groundbreaking non-fiction book "Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents." While details remain tightly under wraps, DuVernay's track record suggests a profound, thought-provoking examination of systemic injustice and human connection, making it one of the festival's most significant premieres.

4.

Poor Things (Dir. Yorgos Lanthimos)

Prepare for the delightfully bizarre with Yorgos Lanthimos's "Poor Things." Reuniting with his "The Favourite" star Emma Stone, this gothic romance with a fantastical twist promises Lanthimos's signature unsettling yet captivating style. Stone plays Bella Baxter, a young woman brought back to life by an eccentric scientist, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and liberation.

The film’s unique premise and stellar cast, including Mark Ruffalo and Willem Dafoe, position it as a truly unmissable cinematic experience.

5. Ferrari (Dir. Michael Mann)

Michael Mann, the master of meticulously crafted thrillers and high-octane drama, takes on the life of Enzo Ferrari in his latest opus, "Ferrari." Starring Adam Driver as the legendary automobile entrepreneur, the film plunges into the tumultuous summer of 1957, a period of immense personal and professional crisis for Ferrari as he gambles everything on the Mille Miglia race.

Expect Mann’s unparalleled attention to detail and intense storytelling to deliver a visceral journey into the world of speed, ambition, and personal sacrifice.

6. Evil Does Not Exist (Dir. Ryusuke Hamaguchi)

Following his Oscar-winning "Drive My Car," Japanese auteur Ryusuke Hamaguchi presents "Evil Does Not Exist." While plot specifics are shrouded in mystery, the anticipation surrounding Hamaguchi's next work is immense.

Known for his nuanced character studies and deliberate pacing, this film is expected to offer another deeply contemplative and emotionally resonant experience, solidifying his status as one of contemporary cinema's most compelling voices.

7. Comandante (Dir. Edoardo De Angelis)

Kicking off the festival as the opening film, "Comandante" by Edoardo De Angelis promises a gripping historical drama.

Set during World War II, the film follows Commander Salvatore Todaro of the Royal Italian Navy submarine Cappellini, who made a controversial decision to rescue 26 shipwrecked Belgian sailors. This high-seas epic is poised to be an intense, character-driven exploration of duty, humanity, and the moral complexities of war.

8.

El Conde (Dir. Pablo Larrain)

Pablo Larrain, known for his incisive biopics like "Jackie" and "Spencer," takes a darkly satirical turn with "El Conde." Imagine Augusto Pinochet as an aging vampire, yearning for death but finding eternal life a curse. This audacious black comedy from Chile blends horror with political commentary, promising a biting critique of dictatorship through a uniquely fantastical lens.

Larrain's distinct vision ensures this will be a provocative and unforgettable entry.

9. The Promised Land (Dir. Nikolaj Arcel)

Danish director Nikolaj Arcel ("A Royal Affair") returns to his home country with "The Promised Land," a historical epic starring the formidable Mads Mikkelsen.

Set in the 18th century, the film follows Ludvig Kahlen, a veteran captain attempting to cultivate the desolate Jutland heath at the king’s behest. It’s a tale of resilience, ambition, and the harsh realities of pioneering, with Mikkelsen’s intense presence sure to anchor this grand historical drama.

10.

Lubo (Dir. Giorgio Diritti)

Giorgio Diritti, an Italian director celebrated for his humanistic approach, brings "Lubo" to the Venice Lido. Inspired by a true story, the film delves into the life of a street artist from the Yenish minority, whose family is tragically taken from him. Lubo embarks on a lifelong search for his children, a journey that mirrors the broader historical injustices faced by his community.

Expect a deeply moving and socially conscious narrative, characteristic of Diritti’s powerful storytelling.

11. Io Capitano (Dir. Matteo Garrone)

Matteo Garrone, the acclaimed director of "Gomorrah" and "Dogman," presents "Io Capitano," a poignant tale of two young Senegalese cousins who embark on a perilous journey from Dakar to Europe, seeking a better life.

This film promises a harrowing yet hopeful coming-of-age story seen through the eyes of those navigating unimaginable challenges, offering a vital and timely perspective on migration with Garrone's characteristic blend of realism and poetic vision.

12. Dogman (Dir. Luc Besson)

Luc Besson, the visionary behind "Léon: The Professional" and "The Fifth Element," returns with "Dogman," starring the mesmerizing Caleb Landry Jones.

The film tells the story of Douglas, a man severely injured as a child, who finds solace and strength in a pack of dogs. Besson's signature blend of gritty drama, stylistic flair, and unexpected emotional depth is expected to deliver a compelling and unique narrative about survival, connection, and the profound bond between humans and animals.

As the curtains rise on the 80th Venice Film Festival, these 12 films stand as beacons of cinematic innovation and storytelling prowess.

From intimate character studies to grand historical epics and daring genre bending, the Lido is set to host a true feast for the senses. Prepare your popcorn and get ready to be swept away by the artistry and passion that only the Venice Film Festival can deliver. The world of cinema awaits!