Venice Film Festival Concludes with Jarmusch Triumph, French Stars Shine
Venice, Italy – The 82nd Venice Mostra drew to a close Saturday with Jim Jarmusch claiming the coveted Golden Lion for “Father mother Brother Sister,” cementing his status as a cult filmmaking icon. The festival, a bellwether for the upcoming awards season, also showcased a strong contingent of French talent, including Adèle Exarchopoulos, Gilles Lellouche, and Louis Garrel.
The final film screened, Cédric Jimenez’s “Dog 51,” featured Lellouche as Zem, a hardened police officer nicknamed “Dog 51” who operates in the rough Zone 3. To crack a complex murder case, Zem is forced into an uneasy alliance with Salia, an elite inspector from Zone 2, portrayed by Exarchopoulos. Garrel and Stéphane Bak appeared in supporting roles, adding further French star power to the closing night’s red carpet.
Alexander Payne’s jury awarded a range of prizes, recognizing international filmmaking excellence. beyond Jarmusch’s top honor, Kauther ben Hania’s “The Voice of Hind Rajab” secured the Grand Prix du Jury, while gianfranco Rosi’s “below the Clouds” received a Special Jury Prize.
Individual acting accolades went to xin Zhilei for “The Sun Rises on Us All” (Best Actress Volpi Cup) and toni Servillo for “Grazia” (Best Actor Volpi Cup). Benny Safdie was recognized for his direction of “The Smashing Machine,” and Valerie Donzelli and Gilles Marchand took home the Best Screenplay award for “At Work.” Luna Wedler was honored with the marcello Mastroianni award for Best New Talent for her performance in “Silent Friend.”
