9 Stars To Attend Venice Film Festival 2023 | MarkMeets: Celebrity News and Features

Stars and Struggles: Navigating Attendance at the 2023 Venice Film Festival

As the 2023 Venice Film Festival approaches, the buzz surrounding the event is met with a unique set of challenges. Conversations are rife about which prominent figures from the film industry will grace the annual gathering, considering the backdrop of ongoing strikes led by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). These strikes have raised questions about the ability of writers and actors to attend and support their projects, as the rules of promoting struck work come into play.

Navigating the Strike Effect

The prevailing strikes have cast a shadow of uncertainty over the festival’s guest list. Writers and actors find themselves grappling with the intricacies of industrial negotiations, which are unfolding in the background. The outcome of these negotiations greatly influences the presence of Hollywood’s finest at the Venice Film Festival, Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), and Telluride Film Festival. Producers, distributors, publicists, and the festival organizers are all caught in a holding pattern, resulting in a frequent response of “TBD” (To Be Determined) as they await clarity on participation.

The Exceptional Cases

Amidst the tumultuous landscape, certain actors and writers have managed to secure interim agreements due to special circumstances, allowing them to attend the festival. One prominent star set to grace the Lido, the festival’s iconic venue, is none other than Adam Driver. Known for his role in “Ferrari,” Driver is gearing up to promote Michael Mann’s highly anticipated new film, marking him as the most prominent U.S. actor to commit to the festival this year.

The presence of these exceptional figures has added a touch of glamour and excitement to the upcoming event. However, a cloud of uncertainty hovers over whether Driver’s “Ferrari” co-stars Penélope Cruz and Shailene Woodley will join him on the Lido. While speculation has indicated Cruz’s potential attendance, it remains unconfirmed whether the Oscar-winning actress will indeed grace the festival. Other notable names, including Patrick Dempsey and Jack O’Connell, are also expected to make appearances.

Stars in Alignment: Confirmed Attendees

Amid the uncertainty, several stars have confirmed their attendance at the Venice Film Festival. Mads Mikkelsen, celebrated for his work in Danish cinema, is set to present “The Promised Land.” The intriguing “DogMan” has generated significant buzz, with actors Caleb Landry Jones and JoJo T. Gibbs participating under an interim agreement. Further enriching the lineup are Peter Sarsgaard and Billy Magnussen, who bring their roles as executive producers to the Venice Days movie “Coup!” Additionally, Olga Kurylenko will grace the event for the premiere of Xavier Giannoli’s TV series “Of Blood and Money.”

A notable duo that has secured its spot is Sofia Coppola’s “Priscilla” pair—Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi, who portray Priscilla and Elvis Presley, respectively. Their attendance adds a layer of excitement to the festival, especially since the movie benefits from an interim agreement. Notably, Priscilla Presley herself is also among the contingent.

Absences and Shadows

Despite the array of stars attending, some prominent names will be notably absent from the festival. The casts of studio movies such as “The Killer,” “Maestro,” and “Poor Things” are not expected to grace the Lido’s red carpet. Similarly, certain actors from non-studio productions have opted to stay away. Among the notable absences are Lily James, Willem Dafoe, Joe Keery, and Rachel Sennott, stars of “Finally Dawn.” Liam Neeson, who headlines “In The Land Of Saints And Sinners,” will also miss the festival. Luca Barbareschi’s “Penitent” cast, including Catherine McCormack, Adam Jones, and Adrian Lester, will not be in attendance.

The Uncertain Horizon

While the festival’s lineup takes shape, a handful of attendees remain in the “TBD” category. Glen Powell’s status for “Hit Man,” Mickey Rourke’s presence for “The Palace,” and Léa Seydoux and George MacKay’s attendance for “The Beast” are yet to be officially confirmed. However, multiple sources indicate that Jessica Chastain will grace the Lido for Michel Franco’s “Memory,” adding further intrigue to the mix.

Filmmakers and Directors: A Creative Confluence

Beyond the realm of actors, the Venice Film Festival will also host an assembly of acclaimed filmmakers and directors. This year’s roster includes luminaries such as David Fincher, Sofia Coppola, Michael Mann, Richard Linklater, Woody Allen, Yorgos Lanthimos, and the multi-talented actor-turned-director Jack Huston. It’s worth noting that some directors who are members of the Writers Guild of America will attend in their capacity as directors.

International Flair and Celebrations

True to its global reputation, the festival is set to feature a diverse assembly of international talent. Among the luminaries is Hong Kong icon Tony Leung, who will receive a well-deserved lifetime achievement award. French actress Valerie Lemercier is poised to grace the event, representing her roles in Woody Allen’s “Coup De Chance” and Roman Polanski’s film “The Palace.” The international presence promises a rich tapestry of cultures and talents converging on the Lido.

The Grand Stage Awaits

The 80th Venice Film Festival, a landmark event, is primed to launch with a burst of cinematic energy. Commencing next Wednesday, the festival will unfold its cinematic treasures until September 9th. The curtain rises with the Italian WWII action film “Comandante.” Notably, the festival’s opening had initially been entrusted to Zendaya starrer “Challengers.” However, due to the prevailing strikes, the movie withdrew from its slot, underscoring the ripple effects of industrial actions on the festival’s carefully curated lineup.

As the world anticipates this cinematic spectacle, the complex interplay between strikes, negotiations, and star-studded attendees underscores the delicate balance that defines the 2023 Venice Film Festival. Amidst uncertainty, one thing remains certain—the festival will once again stand as a celebration of cinema, a testament to the resilience and creativity of the industry’s brightest stars.