What Are the Best, Worst, and Weirdest Films from the 2025 Venice Film Festival?

This year’s Venice Film Festival stood out with an impressive slate of bold films, showcasing a range of genres and themes that captivated audiences. From the politically charged thriller "A House of Dynamite" to the ambitious yet flawed "In the Hand of Dante," the festival has provided a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers to make their mark. Notably, the festival delivered record-breaking moments, including a lengthy 23-minute standing ovation for the devastating drama "The Voice of Hind Rajab." Here’s a round-up of the films that left a lasting impression, whether for their brilliance or their shortcomings.

Last updated: 30 October 2023 (BST)

• Venice Film Festival 2023 showcased diverse and bold cinematic offerings.
• "A House of Dynamite," directed by Kathryn Bigelow, emerged as a standout thriller.
• Julian Schnabel's "In the Hand of Dante" received mixed reviews, struggling with coherence.
• Gus Van Sant’s "Dead Man’s Wire" surprised audiences with its dark comedic tone.
• Dwayne Johnson’s performance in "The Smashing Machine" signals a potential Oscar nomination.
• Many films like "The Testament of Ann Lee" provoked strong reactions, both positive and negative.

Highlights of the Venice Film Festival

A House of Dynamite: A Gripping Political Thriller

The standout film at this year's festival is undoubtedly "A House of Dynamite," directed by Kathryn Bigelow. Starring Idris Elba as the US president, alongside Rebecca Ferguson and Jared Harris, this taut doomsday thriller presents an urgent narrative. The plot revolves around a nuclear missile launched at America, prompting the government and military to react in real-time. Bigelow's return to the political thriller genre is not only timely but also chillingly relevant, showcasing the fragility of global security. The film received acclaim for its high-stakes tension and thought-provoking themes, making it a must-watch when it hits select UK cinemas on 3 October and Netflix on 24 October.

In the Hand of Dante: A Flawed Ambition

Julian Schnabel’s "In the Hand of Dante" is a film that garnered a mixed reception. Featuring an all-star cast including Oscar Isaac, Gal Gadot, and Al Pacino, the film attempts to weave a narrative that spans 700 years, following the life of writer Nick Tosches, believed to be the reincarnation of Dante Alighieri. Despite its ambitious premise, critics described it as an overindulgent mess, struggling with tonal inconsistencies and an incomprehensible script. While Al Pacino's performance as a conspiratorial uncle provided some highlights, the film ultimately failed to deliver a cohesive story. A UK release date has yet to be confirmed, but the buzz surrounding the film's production has certainly sparked interest.

Unexpected Surprises: Dead Man’s Wire

A Dark Comedy from Gus Van Sant

Gus Van Sant’s "Dead Man’s Wire" defied expectations, offering a chaotic yet engaging dark comedy based on the true story of Tony Kiritsis, who famously kidnapped his mortgage broker in the 1970s. With Bill Skarsgård in the lead role, the film combines elements of crime drama with unexpected humour. Van Sant’s unique storytelling approach and Skarsgård’s impressive performance captivated audiences, leading to spontaneous applause during screenings. The film's anti-capitalist undertones resonate strongly in today's climate, making it a relevant commentary on societal issues. While a UK release date has not been announced, the film's positive reception at the festival suggests it may find a wider audience soon.

Innovative Storytelling: The Testament of Ann Lee

A Radical Musical Experience

Another notable entry is "The Testament of Ann Lee," directed by Mona Fastvold and produced by the team behind "The Brutalist." This radical, intense musical explores the life of the founder of the Shakers movement, featuring Amanda Seyfried, who showcases her vocal talents in this unique cinematic experience. The film received a 15-minute standing ovation, yet it also prompted several walkouts, indicating that its unconventional approach may not resonate with all viewers. As a divisive work, "The Testament of Ann Lee" challenges traditional storytelling, positioning itself as a bold experiment in film. The UK release date remains unconfirmed, leaving audiences eager for more information.

Exploring Complex Themes: After the Hunt

Julia Roberts' Return to Form

In "After the Hunt," Julia Roberts delivers one of her most compelling performances in years, tackling the complexities of cancel culture within the #MeToo movement. The film follows a philosophy professor (played by Roberts) whose life unravels when her colleague is accused of misconduct. Directed by Luca Guadagnino, the film has been praised for its exploration of difficult themes, though some critics feel it skims the surface rather than delving deeper into its subject matter. Despite these critiques, the film's strong performances from Roberts, Andrew Garfield, and Ayo Edebiri make it a notable entry. Set for UK cinemas on 17 October, audiences are keen to see how the film unfolds.

Dwayne Johnson's Dramatic Turn: The Smashing Machine

From Action Star to Oscar Contender?

Dwayne Johnson's performance in "The Smashing Machine," a biopic about Mark Kerr, marks a significant shift in his career. Known for his roles in action and comedy, Johnson delivers a restrained yet powerful performance that has impressed festival-goers and critics alike. Pairing with Emily Blunt, who is also gaining acclaim for her role in "Oppenheimer," Johnson’s transformation in this dramatic role could position him as a strong contender for the Oscars. The film is set to release in UK cinemas on 3 October, and audiences are eager to witness this new facet of Johnson's talent.

Frankenstein: A Gothic Retelling

Guillermo del Toro's Unique Adaptation

Guillermo del Toro’s "Frankenstein" offers a fresh take on the classic tale, focusing on the monstrous nature of the inventor rather than the creature itself. Starring Oscar Isaac and Jacob Elordi, the film presents a visually arresting and thematically rich narrative. Del Toro’s love for the source material shines through, promising a blend of horror and emotional depth. With its release in select UK cinemas on 17 October and on Netflix from 7 November, this adaptation promises to captivate both fans of the original story and newcomers alike.

Conclusion: A Memorable Festival Experience

As the Venice Film Festival wraps up, this year's edition has left a significant mark with its diverse array of films, ranging from political thrillers to radical musicals. Each film brought something unique to the table, whether it was a thrilling narrative, complex themes, or innovative storytelling. The excitement surrounding these films, particularly those likely to make waves during awards season, highlights the festival's role as a crucial platform for cinematic excellence. With many films yet to be released in the UK, audiences have much to look forward to in the coming months, as these bold narratives continue to spark conversations about the state of cinema today.

What are your thoughts on this year's Venice Film Festival? Which film are you most excited to see? #VeniceFilmFestival #FilmCritique #Cinema

FAQs

What were the standout films at the Venice Film Festival 2023?

The standout films included "A House of Dynamite," "Dead Man’s Wire," and "The Smashing Machine," each showcasing unique narratives and performances that resonated with audiences.

When will the films from the festival be released in the UK?

Films like "A House of Dynamite" and "The Smashing Machine" are set to be released in UK cinemas on 3 October, while "Frankenstein" will arrive on 17 October and Netflix on 7 November.

Did any films receive significant acclaim at the festival?

Yes, "The Voice of Hind Rajab" received a historic 23-minute ovation, highlighting its emotional impact and strong storytelling.

What themes did the films explore this year?

This year’s films explored a range of themes, including political tension, cancel culture, and personal transformation, reflecting current societal issues and historical narratives.

Who directed "A House of Dynamite"?

"A House of Dynamite" was directed by Kathryn Bigelow, known for her expertise in the political thriller genre.