George Clooney is set to make his long-awaited return to the Venice Film Festival after a seven-year hiatus with the premiere of his new film, 'Wolfs,' directed by Jon Watts and co-starring Brad Pitt. Clooney's connection to Venice is deep-rooted, having attended the festival for over two decades and even getting married there. Meanwhile, Alberto Barbera, the festival's artistic director, has transformed the event from a struggling enterprise to a thriving cultural hub since his return in 2012, despite facing political challenges earlier in his career. The 2024 edition of the festival promises a diverse lineup, showcasing sequels, biographies, and auteur cinema, amidst ongoing global tensions. Among the highlights are the sequel to 'Joker' and a biographical film on Maria Callas starring Angelina Jolie. The Italian Film Festival in Brisbane will also screen notable Italian films, including 'Gloria!' and 'There's Still Tomorrow,' celebrating the richness of Italian cinema.