Every film festival boasts its unique character, its distinct standing in the awards circuit, and varying levels of success over the years. However, the Venice International Film Festival, the world's oldest of its kind, is about to commence its 81st edition this Wednesday (August 28), establishing itself in a category of its own. This festival has become the premier showcase for the most anticipated studio releases and art films that define the autumn movie season.

The star-studded lineup at the 81st Venice Film Festival is set to dazzle with the presence of Hollywood icons like Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Lady Gaga, Joaquin Phoenix, Daniel Craig, Nicole Kidman, Tilda Swinton, and Adrien Brody, among others. The Venice Lido is expected to be packed with enthusiastic fans eager to spot their favourite celebrities and capture those coveted autograph-selfie moments.

Last year, Venice's red carpet was notably subdued, with top stars absent due to a strike by Hollywood actors and screenwriters. However, this year, the festival is anticipated to make a comeback, with a lineup of prominent stars gracing the event right from the opening night.

Alberto Barbera, the director of the 11-day festival, has expressed that this year's Venice Film Festival is set to witness unprecedented energy on the red carpet. Speaking to Reuters, he remarked, "After last year's prolonged strike, there's a palpable excitement among everyone to return to Venice." He added, "I believe this will be the most vibrant red carpet we've ever seen. Due to financial constraints faced by production and distribution companies, many attendees are covering their own travel and accommodation costs to be part of the festival."

A total of 21 feature-length films are set to compete for the prestigious Golden Lion at this year's Venice Film Festival. Among the contenders are Todd Phillips' "Joker: Folly à Deux" starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, Pablo Larraín's "Maria" featuring Angelina Jolie, Luca Guadagnino's "Queer" with Daniel Craig, Spanish director Pedro Almodóvar's first English-language project "The Room Next Door" starring Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton, and "Brutalist," directed by actor-turned-director Brady Corbet, starring Adrien Brody and Felicity Jones, along with several other notable entries.

The festival kicks off today (August 28) with the premiere of the U.S. comedy horror "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," directed by Tim Burton. Held on the Venice Lido, a narrow barrier island in the Venetian Lagoon often referred to as Venice's beach, the festival's location is just a short boat ride away from the heart of Venice. Unlike the car-free streets of Venice, the Lido is accessible to vehicles, providing a unique contrast to the main city.

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Film Fiesta kicks off today

Like many prestigious festivals, Venice designates several slots for intriguing films that are showcased outside of the competition. This year's selection features Tim Burton's "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," Jon Watts' "Wolfs," "Finalement" by the accomplished French director Claude Lelouch, and "Broken Rage," the newest film from acclaimed Japanese filmmaker Takeshi Kitano.

The festival is set to feature a select few upcoming TV series, including the thriller "Disclaimer," directed by the esteemed Alfonso Cuarón and starring Cate Blanchett and Kevin Kline.