What Are the 10 Must-See Movies at Venice 2025?

The 2025 Venice Film Festival, a prestigious event showcasing emerging talent and highly anticipated films, opens today with a remarkable line-up. It features a mix of established directors and fresh narratives, solidifying Venice's reputation as a pivotal platform for films seeking acclaim. From Guillermo del Toro’s gothic reinterpretation of a classic to Kathryn Bigelow’s political thriller, the festival promises a rich cinematic experience.

Last updated: 27 August 2025 (BST)

Key Takeaways from the 2025 Venice Film Festival

• The festival runs from 27 August to 6 September 2025.
• Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic is a highlight.
• Jude Law stars as a young Vladimir Putin in a political thriller.
• Noah Baumbach’s comedy-drama features an impressive ensemble cast.
• Kathryn Bigelow explores real-time political tensions in her latest film.

Guillermo del Toro's Gothic Masterpiece

Guillermo del Toro returns to the gothic genre with his adaptation of Mary Shelley’s iconic novel. Starring Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi as his unorthodox creation, this Netflix production is set to blend horror with emotional depth. Del Toro’s previous successes, such as Crimson Peak and Pan’s Labyrinth, suggest that audiences can expect lavish visuals and haunting performances.

Joining Isaac and Elordi are Christoph Waltz, Mia Goth, and Ralph Ineson, making for a star-studded cast. Given Del Toro's skill in crafting narratives that resonate emotionally, this film is anticipated to be both terrifying and poignant.

A Political Thriller with Jude Law

In a gripping political thriller directed by Olivier Assayas, Jude Law takes on the role of a young Vladimir Putin. The film, adapted from a celebrated French novel, follows Vadim Baranov, portrayed by Paul Dano, as he transitions from a young artist to a government strategist amid the tumultuous 1990s in Russia.

This film features a supporting cast that includes Alicia Vikander, Jeffrey Wright, and Zach Galifianakis, raising expectations for a compelling narrative rich in intrigue. Assayas’ previous works, such as Clouds of Sils Maria, have garnered critical acclaim, making this film a potential standout at the festival.

Noah Baumbach's Star-Studded Comedy-Drama

Noah Baumbach collaborates with Emily Mortimer to present a Netflix comedy-drama centred on an actor navigating an identity crisis, featuring George Clooney in the lead role. Clooney’s charisma and acting prowess are expected to shine as he portrays a character seeking solace in a European journey.

The ensemble cast is impressive, including Adam Sandler, Laura Dern, and Greta Gerwig. Baumbach’s previous films, such as Marriage Story, have demonstrated his ability to blend humour with deeper themes, making this film one to watch closely.

Historical Drama Musical: The Testament of Ann Lee

The festival also features a unique historical drama musical, The Testament of Ann Lee, starring Amanda Seyfried. The film explores the life of the Shakers' founder, who was considered by her followers to be the female representation of God. With a cast that includes Thomasin McKenzie and Tim Blake Nelson, this film promises a blend of historical narrative and musical elements.

Directed by Mona Fastvold, known for her acclaimed film The Brutalist, this project is anticipated to push boundaries and offer a fresh perspective on historical storytelling.

Julia Roberts in After the Hunt

Director Luca Guadagnino returns to the Venice Film Festival with After the Hunt, featuring Julia Roberts as a professor confronting her past when a colleague is accused of misconduct. This film promises to delve into complex relationships and moral dilemmas, enriched by a soundtrack from Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross.

Roberts’ performance could be a significant highlight, as she tackles a role that challenges her character's integrity and past, potentially marking one of her most substantial roles since Erin Brockovich.

Kathryn Bigelow's A House of Dynamite

Acclaimed director Kathryn Bigelow presents A House of Dynamite, a thrilling political drama unfolding in real time as White House officials confront an incoming missile threat. With a powerhouse cast including Idris Elba and Rebecca Ferguson, this film is set to combine intense action with intricate political narratives.

Bigelow’s ability to blend drama and suspense, as demonstrated in films like Zero Dark Thirty, raises anticipation for this latest offering, which could become a highlight of the festival.

Dwayne Johnson as The Smashing Machine

Dwayne Johnson stars in The Smashing Machine, portraying Mark Kerr, a former MMA fighter. This film marks a significant departure for Johnson, who aims to showcase a deeper side of his acting abilities alongside Emily Blunt. Directed by Benny Safdie, this project is poised to garner awards attention, particularly due to its compelling narrative and Johnson's performance.

Safdie’s previous work has demonstrated an ability to extract nuanced performances from stars, and this film could redefine Johnson’s career trajectory.

Bugonia: A Sci-Fi Black Comedy

Emma Stone reunites with Yorgos Lanthimos in the ambitious anthology film Bugonia, where two conspiracy theorists kidnap a CEO, convinced she is an alien. This darkly comedic remake of a South Korean classic showcases Lanthimos's signature style of blending absurdity with social commentary.

With a cast that includes Jesse Plemons and Alicia Silverstone, this film promises to deliver a unique narrative experience, likely becoming a conversation starter among festival-goers.

In the Hand of Dante: A Literary Journey

Director Julian Schnabel’s In the Hand of Dante features Oscar Isaac in a captivating tale involving the journey of Dante Alighieri's manuscript. With a star-studded cast including Gerard Butler and Al Pacino, this film is expected to explore themes of authenticity and legacy within the literary world.

Schnabel's previous works have been well-received, and this project, which has been in development for over a decade, is anticipated to be both bold and visually stunning.

Gus Van Sant's Dead Man’s Wire

Returning to the Venice Film Festival, Gus Van Sant presents Dead Man’s Wire, based on the true story of kidnapper Tony Kiritsis. With Bill Skarsgård in the lead role, the film promises to be an intense thriller, showcasing Van Sant’s knack for compelling storytelling.

With a talented cast including Al Pacino and Dacre Montgomery, this film is positioned to be a gripping exploration of desperation and morality.

Conclusion: A Festival of Unprecedented Talent

The 2025 Venice Film Festival showcases a remarkable array of talent and diverse storytelling, reinforcing its status as a critical hub for filmmakers and audiences alike. With films ranging from political thrillers to unique historical dramas, there is something for everyone to look forward to. As the festival unfolds, it will be intriguing to see which films emerge as the frontrunners for awards season.

As the festival progresses, what stories and performances will capture your attention? Will this year's line-up redefine cinematic boundaries and expectations?
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FAQs

When does the Venice Film Festival 2025 take place?

The Venice Film Festival runs from 27 August to 6 September 2025.

Who are some of the prominent directors featured this year?

Prominent directors include Guillermo del Toro, Kathryn Bigelow, and Noah Baumbach, among others.

What types of films are showcased at the festival?

The festival features a variety of genres, including political thrillers, historical dramas, comedies, and sci-fi films.

Are there any notable performances to watch for?

Yes, performances by Julia Roberts, George Clooney, and Dwayne Johnson are anticipated to be significant highlights.

How does the Venice Film Festival impact awards season?

The festival often sets the stage for films that go on to receive nominations and wins during the awards season.