Barbera: In Venice there are no flags, the films will speak

The 83rd edition of the Venice Film Festival opened with a focus on journalism and its power to shape reality, according to Alberto Barbera, the festival's director. The opening film, Ink by Danny Boyle, explores the world of tabloid journalism, while other entries include war reporting and the sacrifice of photojournalist Gerda Taro in La ragazza con la Leica by Alina Marazzi. Meanwhile, George Clooney is expected to receive the Golden Lion for lifetime achievement on the red carpet. Political tensions have already emerged at the Lido, with Barbera addressing controversies before the festival began. Barbera described the upcoming festival as "curious, provocative, and rich." He acknowledged previous disputes over the inclusion of DAU, a film directed by Russian filmmaker Ilya Khrzhanovsky, which was initially controversial due to Ukraine’s objections regarding its potential ties to Russian interests. After canceling and later reinstating the press conference for the jury, international speculation arose about political motivations aimed at shielding the jury, including president Maggie Gyllenhaal. Barbera explained that the decision to reinstate the press conference followed international reactions suggesting hidden agendas. Venice4Palestine has called for the Palestinian flag to be displayed throughout the festival. However, Barbera noted that the Venice Biennale can only display flags of states recognized by Italy, and Palestine is not yet a state. Instead, four films will address the Palestinian issue directly and critically. Among these, Naza, a documentary by Israeli directors Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, stands out. It features interviews with Israeli military and intelligence officials discussing decisions leading to civilian casualties in Gaza. The filmmakers masked their subjects to protect them from repercussions, highlighting the film's powerful narrative. On September 4, Barbera will host a discussion titled The Future of... Creativity featuring George Clooney, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Giuseppe Tornatore, and Alexandre Desplat. He emphasized the need to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) ethically, noting its growing use in cinema for effects and production. While AI presents risks to creativity and jobs, it also offers new possibilities for artists. Barbera stressed the importance of establishing ethical guidelines to ensure AI supports rather than undermines artistic expression. Political tensions continue to influence the festival, with The Voice of Hind Rajab by Kaouther Ben Hania winning the Silver Lion for Best Director. This film depicts the final moments of a Palestinian child during an Israeli military operation. The film’s director, who sits on the jury this year, has sparked discussions about the festival's stance on current geopolitical issues. International media speculated that the press conference might have been canceled to avoid politically sensitive questions, though this was later denied. Venice4Palestine has intensified its calls, requesting the display of the Palestinian flag and the suspension of agreements with entities linked to Israel. Prominent figures such as Nobel laureate Annie Ernaux, musician Roger Waters, and actors Matteo Garrone and Jasmine Trinca support the initiative. A dedicated panel on Palestine is planned for September 8. Controversy surrounds Dau, a film by Russian director Ilya Khrzhanovsky, who has renounced his Russian citizenship and opposes the invasion of Ukraine. Despite Ukrainian claims linking the film to Russian cultural influence, the Venice Biennale defends its inclusion, emphasizing the film's anti-totalitarian message and the director's persecution by Moscow. The festival faces financial challenges after the European Union cut a €2 million contribution due to the reopening of the Russian Pavilion, a move opposed by the EU. President Pietrangelo Buttafuoco reiterated his stance, stating the Biennale would manage without EU funds. Additional controversy arises from Primetime, a film by Lance Oppenheim, which portrays journalist Chris Hansen's role in capturing pedophiles. Hansen is considering legal action against the film's portrayal, adding another layer of complexity to the festival's proceedings.