The curtains closed on a dazzling Venice International Film Festival 2025, celebrating cinematic brilliance from across the globe. This year’s festival, which ran from August 27 to September 6, brought a host of exciting wins. Hollywood’s own Dwayne Johnson saw his film pick up a major award, while India’s Anuparna Roy made history with her directing triumph.
Filmmaker Benny Safdie’s “The Smashing Machine” took home the prestigious Silver Lion award for Best Director. This project garnered much buzz, partly because superstar Dwayne Johnson played the lead role. Accepting the award, Safdie explained his film aims to highlight empathy and sensitivity. He truly believes these qualities are vital in today’s world. Safdie honored Johnson, warmly calling him both a partner and a brother in their creative journey.
Making headlines for her homeland, director Anuparna Roy from India earned the Best Director award in the Orizzonti section. Her film, “Songs of Forgotten Trees,” captivated audiences and judges alike. It tells the moving story of two migrant women in Mumbai. They navigate loneliness and daily struggles, searching for connections and hope. This win marks a significant moment, bringing new international recognition to Indian cinema.
The top prize of the festival, the coveted Golden Lion for Best Film, went to American director Jim Jarmusch for his work, “Father Mother Sister Brother.” Jarmusch shared his philosophy while accepting the award. He said cinema is a means of expression for him, not a contest. He lovingly described Venice, a city rich in art and history, as his second home.
Beyond these major wins, the Grand Jury Prize was awarded to Kaouther Ben Hania for her impactful film, “The Voice of Hind Rajab.” This powerful film is based on the real-life story of a five-year-old girl who tragically died in Gaza. Ben Hania dedicated her award to the Red Crescent and other relief teams working in Gaza. In an emotional speech, she noted that the world heard Hind’s voice but could not save her. Ben Hania expressed hope that cinema would help keep that voice alive for future generations.
Other talented individuals and films were also recognized during the festival. Italian veteran actor Toni Servillo won Best Actor for his performance in “La Grazia.” China’s Xin Zhilei received the Best Actress award for her role in “The Sun Rises On Us All.” The Marcello Mastroianni Award, honoring young artists, went to Luna Wedler for “Silent Friend.” The Special Jury Prize was given to “Bello the Clouds.” Meanwhile, “A Pied D’Oeuvre” earned the award for Best Screenplay. The Audience Award went to “Kale Malaga,” and “Mata Hari” was celebrated as the Best Documentary.