Welcome to the 81st Edition of the Venice Film Festival!
VENICE – The excitement is palpable as the 81st edition of the Venice Film Festival kicks off with the world premiere of “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” on Wednesday. A star-studded lineup including Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Jenna Ortega, Catherine O’Hara, and Monica Bellucci are expected to grace the red carpet.
“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is a sequel to Tim Burton’s 1988 horror-comedy, bringing back the Deetz family to their country home after the death of Charles. Ryder’s Lydia is now a mother to her “surly” teenage daughter, Astrid, played by Ortega, known for her role in Netflix’s popular series “Wednesday.” The film promises an exciting mix of nostalgia and new adventures as Astrid stumbles upon the old model city in the attic, unleashing Keaton’s mischievous ghoul once again.
A Warner Bros. release, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” will premiere out of competition before its theatrical release worldwide next week, marking the beginning of a 10-day extravaganza on the Lido, the barrier island across the Venetian lagoon.
The festival promises more star power with George Clooney and Brad Pitt presenting “Wolfs” and Kevin Costner’s closing film “Horizon: An American Saga—Chapter 2” before the award winners are announced on Sept. 7. Major contenders for the coveted Golden Lion include Todd Phillips’ “Joker: Folie à Deux” starring Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix, Pablo Larraín’s “Maria” with Angelina Jolie, and Pedro Almodóvar’s English-language debut “The Room Next Door” featuring Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton.
Stay up-to-date with all the glamour and excitement of the 2024 Venice Film Festival at https://apnews.com/hub/venice-film-festival.
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