What makes the Venice Film Festival special? One of the best things about the festival is the relaxed atmosphere, allowing attendees to easily combine networking and business meetings with the opportunity to watch films. Perhaps it has to do with the end of summer, the wonderful light, or the ability to take a swim. The festival offers a unique blend of business and pleasure, which sets it apart from other film festivals.
However, the impact of the Hollywood strikes on Venice may result in fewer Hollywood stars walking the red carpet. Nevertheless, this could also mean more attention for the films and stars from Europe and other continents, showcasing a diverse range of talent.
For those looking to avoid the crowds and industry buzz, the best place in Venice is kept as a secret. As a born Venetian, coping with crowds is one of the city’s biggest challenges. However, a suggestion is to take a bicycle and explore the Lido, a less crowded area where you can enjoy the beauty of Venice in peace.
While there isn’t much that one would change about the festival itself, it would be beneficial to have more affordable accommodations for young festival attendees. This would allow more aspiring filmmakers and industry professionals to fully experience and participate in the festival.
For those attending the Venice Film Festival, a must-visit place is the FC Venezia soccer stadium. Even during the festival, one should try their best to attend a match and experience the magical atmosphere of the stadium.
When it comes to food and drinks, one cannot miss trying “capelonghe,” long and thin molluscs which are a delicacy in Venice. As for drinks, the high-quality Prosecco non-filtrato from the Veneto region is highly recommended.
When it comes to memorable encounters with celebrities in Venice, one stands out above the rest. Many years ago, the author had the opportunity to meet Jeanne Moreau, who was one of the main characters in the film “The Absence” by Nobel Prize-winning novelist Peter Handke. Moreau left a lasting impression with her talent and charisma.
Despite attending the festival for many years, the author has never had any “Venice nightmare” moments. It seems that the festival is well-organized and provides an enjoyable experience for all attendees.
Besides their phone, the author never travels without their Birkenstocks, as they find them to be essential footwear. This global phenomenon is loved by many for its comfort and style, proving that it’s not just the author who appreciates them.
For those visiting Venice for the first time, the author advises trying to attend the first screenings of the day and taking a walk on the beach beforehand. This allows for a refreshing start to the day and the chance to enjoy the beauty of Venice before immersing oneself in the festival.
In Venice, it is always recommended to take a break and visit a museum. The Scuola di San Rocco is a great option, where one can appreciate the artwork of Tintoretto. Additionally, attending a Biennale exhibition is also a must-do activity to experience the contemporary art scene in Venice.
One should never refer to a square as a “piazza” in Venice unless it is specifically Piazza San Marco. In all other cases, it is called a “campo.” This is a cultural nuance to keep in mind while exploring the city.
In conclusion, the Venice Film Festival offers a unique blend of business and pleasure in a relaxed atmosphere. While Hollywood strikes may impact the festival, it also provides an opportunity for stars from Europe and other continents to shine. With its beautiful venues and cultural attractions, Venice offers a wide range of experiences for visitors, and the festival serves as the perfect platform to showcase the best of cinema.
