Venice Film Festival Eyes Star-Studded 2025 Lineup Led by Dwayne Johnson, Julia Roberts

The 82nd Venice Film Festival, set for Aug. 27–Sept. 6, is shaping up to be one of the most star-packed editions in recent years, according to industry sources tracking the still-evolving lineup. Artistic director Alberto Barbera is finalising selections ahead of an official announcement on July 22. Among the titles widely expected to debut on the Lido is Benny Safdie’s “The Smashing Machine,” with Dwayne Johnson portraying two-time UFC heavyweight champion Mark Kerr and Emily Blunt as Kerr’s wife Dawn. Luca Guadagnino’s #MeToo-themed thriller “After the Hunt,” led by Julia Roberts and Andrew Garfield, and Yorgos Lanthimos’ science-fiction satire “Bugonia,” reuniting the director with Oscar-winner Emma Stone, are also seen as frontrunners for competition slots. Streaming platforms look set to maintain a strong presence. Netflix is circling the festival with Noah Baumbach’s comedy-drama “Jay Kelly,” starring George Clooney, and Guillermo del Toro’s re-imagining of “Frankenstein.” Kathryn Bigelow’s geopolitical thriller “A House of Dynamite,” featuring Idris Elba and Rebecca Ferguson, is another potential Lido premiere. Other projects reported to be in contention include Angelina Jolie’s fashion-world drama “Couture” from director Alice Winocour, Jim Jarmusch’s ensemble “Father Mother Sister Brother,” and Paolo Sorrentino’s Neapolitan drama “La Grazia.” The final slate will be confirmed next month, but early indications point to a festival heavy on high-profile talent and awards-season hopefuls.