Venice Film Festival Unveils Star-Studded Jury for 82nd Edition, Led by Alexander Payne

Venice, Italy — The Venice Film Festival has unveiled the jury for its 82nd edition, featuring a diverse group of renowned filmmakers and actors. This year’s jury will be led by Alexander Payne, the acclaimed American director known for his sharp storytelling and character-driven narratives. The festival will run from August 27 to September 6, drawing international attention and celebrated talent.

Joining Payne on the jury are notable figures including Stéphane Brizé, Maura Delpero, Cristian Mungiu, Mohammad Rasoulof, Fernanda Torres, and Zhao Tao. Each juror brings a wealth of experience and accolades to the table, poised to evaluate films competing for prestigious awards such as the Golden Lion.

French filmmaker Stéphane Brizé is a veteran of the cinema scene, having directed 11 features. His notable works include “Not Here to Be Loved” and the critically acclaimed “The Measure of a Man,” which earned the Best Actor Award at Cannes in 2015 for Vincent Lindon. Brizé’s films often explore social themes, revealing his deep commitment to character and narrative.

Italian director Maura Delpero has gained significant recognition for her debut film “Maternal,” which secured over 30 awards at international festivals. Her second feature, “Vermiglio,” was awarded the Silver Lion for Grand Jury Prize at Venice and also made it to the Oscar shortlist for Best International Film in 2025. Delpero’s trailblazing role as the first woman to win the David di Donatello for Best Director underscores her rising influence in the industry.

Cristian Mungiu from Romania has left an indelible mark at Cannes, where his works including “4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days,” which won the Palme d’Or, have received widespread acclaim. His exploration of complex human experiences and societal issues has firmly established him as a leading voice in contemporary cinema.

Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof is celebrated for his independent films, having garnered more than 80 international awards. His 2020 film, “There Is No Evil,” won the Golden Bear at the Berlinale, highlighting his powerful storytelling ability. Rasoulof’s most recent work, “The Seed of the Sacred Fig,” received accolades at Cannes and was nominated for consideration for the Oscar for Best International Film.

Brazilian actress Fernanda Torres has an impressive career, collaborating with esteemed directors and earning the Palme d’Or for Best Actress in 1986. Following a successful run at the Venice Film Festival in 2024 with “I’m Still Here,” which won Best Screenplay, Torres continues to make waves in the industry, preparing to shoot her latest project based on her own screenplay in October.

Lastly, Zhao Tao, a prominent Chinese actress recognized for her work with director Jia Zhang-Ke, has starred in numerous acclaimed films that have been featured at major festivals, including Venice. Her performances have not only won critical acclaim but have also solidified her status as a significant figure in modern cinema.

With this esteemed jury in place, the Venice Film Festival promises an exciting showcase of international cinema, celebrating creativity and the art of filmmaking. As the festival approaches, anticipation builds for the films that will compete for its most coveted awards.

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