The Venice Film Festival, running from August 28 to September 7, is poised to showcase a mix of Hollywood hits and international films that may dominate the upcoming awards season. Notable entries include 'Joker: Folie à Deux', described as a daring musical that diverges from its predecessor, and Pablo Larraín's 'Maria', which explores the life of opera singer Maria Callas. Meanwhile, Richard Blanshard's upcoming book, 'Cannes Uncut: The Golden Years', reflects on his two-decade career as a photographer at the Cannes Film Festival, capturing the glamour of the event. The International Film Festival of Shimla highlighted pressing social issues, showcasing films like 'Dwayam' and 'A Long Walk to Happiness' that tackle themes of child abuse and family connections. Additionally, Saule Bliuvaite's debut film 'Toxic' won the Pardo d’Oro at the Locarno International Film Festival, exploring the pressures faced by teenage girls in post-Soviet Lithuania. The Venice Film Festival has increasingly become a launching pad for Oscar contenders, with four of the past ten best picture winners premiering there, signaling its revitalized international standing.