Stars Shine Bright: Venice Film Festival Returns with A-List Glamour

The Venice Film Festival, opening Wednesday, promises a star-studded 11-day extravaganza, making up for last year's subdued edition due to a Hollywood strike. High-profile actors such as Brad Pitt, George Clooney, and Lady Gaga will grace the red carpet, bringing fresh energy to the awards season kickoff.

The Venice Film Festival opens on Wednesday, promising an 11-day star-studded extravaganza that aims to make up for last year's low-key edition caused by a Hollywood strike. This year, prominent celebrities like Brad Pitt, George Clooney, and Lady Gaga are slated to light up the red carpet, injecting fresh energy into the awards season kickoff.

The festival has a history of setting the stage for Oscar contenders. Films premiered at Venice over the past three years have gone on to receive 77 Oscar nominations and 14 wins. Festival director Alberto Barbera emphasized the eagerness of stars to return to Venice, ensuring perhaps the most crowded red carpet yet. Some stars have even financed their way to the Lido to ensure they're part of the glamorous event.

Among the films competing for the Golden Lion top prize are Todd Phillips' "Joker: Folie à Deux," starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, and Pablo Larrain's "Maria," featuring Angelina Jolie as opera diva Maria Callas. The festival's blend of Hollywood blockbusters and auteur-driven works highlights its role as a mirror of contemporary cinema. With over half the competition films by directors new to the festival, Venice continues to be a melting pot of established and emerging talent.

(With inputs from agencies.)