The Venice Film Festival, officially known as the Mostra Internazionale d'Arte Cinematografica della Biennale di Venezia (or"International Exhibition of Cinematographic Art of the Venice Biennale"), is another cornerstone in the world of international cinema. Founded in 1932, it holds the distinction of being the oldest film festival in the world and is also part of the esteemed "Big Three," along with Cannes and the Berlinale. Staged annually on the island of Lido in the Venetian Lagoon in Italy, the festival has a glamorous and historic air that is hard to match, attracting A-list stars and filmmakers alike.

Much renowned for its prestigious Golden Lion award, past recipients include major directors like Akira Kurosawa, Agnès Varda, Andrei Tarkovsky, and Darren Aronofsky. The festival is also celebrated for its expansive and inclusive programming, which not only promotes a diverse range of international cinema but also pays homage to the history of film with retrospectives and restored classics. Venice has a specific focus on artistic cinema, showcasing films that express quality, originality, and innovation. Additionally, it is worth noting the festival's commitment to discovering and promoting new cinematic talent through its 'Venice Orizzonti' section.
 

To add to its importance, Venice is also a significant springboard for the awards season, with many films premiered here going on to achieve Oscar success. The Venice Film Festival, with its historic charm, commitment to creative innovation, diversity, and glamorous atmosphere, is truly a celebration of cinema in its purest form.