Isabelle Huppert, serving as the president of the jury at the 81st Venice Film Festival, expressed deep concerns about the fragility of contemporary cinema, emphasizing that the industry remains weakened post-pandemic. She highlighted the festival's vital role in sustaining film culture, stating that creating a film is a collective effort that must resonate with audiences. Huppert's worries were echoed by fellow jury member Debra Granik, who labeled festivals as essential venues for telling stories often overlooked by mainstream media. Both filmmakers acknowledged the challenges posed by technological advancements, particularly the rise of streaming services, which threaten traditional movie-watching experiences. The festival is set to showcase a range of prominent films, including Tim Burton's Beetlejuice and Todd Phillips' Joker: Folie à Deux, amidst these existential concerns for the art form.