82nd Venice Film Festival Concludes with Golden Lion to Jarmusch, Diverse International Winners

The 82nd Venice Film Festival concluded with Jim Jarmusch's "Father Mother Sister Brother" winning the top prize, the Golden Lion, marking a surprise over other favorites like "The Voice of Hind Rajab." Benny Safdie received Best Director for "The Smashing Machine," which also featured Dwayne Johnson in a notable role likely to be an Oscars contender. The acting awards highlighted international talent, with Xin Zhilei winning Best Actress for "The Sun Rises on Us All," Toni Servillo Best Actor for "La Grazia," and Luna Wedler earning the Marcello Mastroianni Award as Best Young Actor/Actress for "Silent Friend." The festival largely favored a diverse global selection over Hollywood dominance, though performances by Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Oscar Isaac, Amanda Seyfried, and Julia Roberts also drew attention for their provocative and powerful roles. Closing ceremony fashion showcased a variety of styles, from jury member Zhao Tao's commanding Louis Vuitton look to a more understated elegance from Taiwanese singer and actress 9M88 in Chanel. Filmmakers such as Kathryn Bigelow, Guillermo del Toro, and Yorgos Lanthimos remain key figures expected to impact the awards season following Venice.