Paolo Sorrentino's 'La Grazia' to Illuminate Venice Film Festival's Opening Night

Renowned director Paolo Sorrentino's latest feature, 'La Grazia', is set to inaugurate the 82nd Venice Film Festival. During a masterclass at the Sarajevo Film Festival, Sorrentino shared insights on his future plans and creative process, marked by embracing spontaneity over structured objectives, as reported by Variety.

Sorrentino, who engaged in a conversation with Serbian filmmaker Ognjen Glavonic, is receiving the Honorary Heart of Sarajevo Award. Festival head Jovan Marjanovic lauded Sorrentino for the 'great beauty' his films have bestowed upon audiences, Variety noted.

The festival's 'Tribute To' program will showcase a retrospective of his films. 'La Grazia', produced by The Apartment and distributed by MUBI globally (excluding Italy), underscores Sorrentino's sustained relationship with the Venice Film Festival, a notable platform in his career since his early days as a filmmaker.

Venice Film Festival head Alberto Barbera expressed enthusiasm for Sorrentino's return, highlighting the filmmaker's distinctive storytelling that resonates powerfully with contemporary issues. The festival, from August 27 to September 9, will feature the opening night screening of 'La Grazia'.

Reflecting on his early experiences at Venice, Sorrentino reminisced about his initial encounters with the film industry and interactions with the media. He also shared amusing anecdotes about his career trajectory, including his disbelief at being invited to the Tribeca Film Festival and his preference for directing his own scripts.

The Sarajevo Film Festival, where Sorrentino is being honored, continues until August 22. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)