Venezia 82 Unveils Star-Studded Jury Led by Alexander Payne for 2025 Film Festival

Venice, Italy — The 82nd Venice International Film Festival, set to take place from August 27 to September 6, 2025, has announced its International Juries for the prestigious Venezia 82, Orizzonti, and the “Luigi De Laurentiis” Venice Award for Best Debut Film. This year’s selections were made by the Board of Directors of La Biennale, following recommendations from Artistic Director Alberto Barbera, ensuring a distinguished group of judges for the competition.

Alexander Payne, an acclaimed American director known for his sharp wit and unique storytelling, will lead the Venezia 82 Competition jury. Alongside him are prominent figures from the global cinema landscape, including French filmmaker Stéphane Brizé, Italian director Maura Delpero, Romanian director Cristian Mungiu, Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof, Brazilian actress Fernanda Torres, and Chinese actress Zhao Tao.

Payne, who has garnered 24 Academy Award nominations throughout his career, has proven his prowess with films that blend humor and emotional depth. Known for his work on titles such as “Sideways” and “The Descendants,” he has won Oscars for Best Adapted Screenplay and continues to venture into new creative realms, including an upcoming project set in rural Denmark.

Stéphane Brizé has an impressive portfolio of 11 feature films, including award-winning works that probe the social ramifications of economic changes. His film “The Measure of a Man” earned significant accolades, including a Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival. Following that success, he recently completed filming “A Good Little Soldier.”

Maura Delpero has built a reputation for her compelling and award-winning narratives, with her first feature, “Maternal,” achieving critical acclaim and numerous accolades. Her second film, “Vermiglio,” not only won the Silver Lion at the Venice Film Festival but also represented Italy at the Academy Awards.

Cristian Mungiu has a rich history in film that began with his breakout hit “Occident,” showcasing the profound effects of Romanian culture and politics. His film “4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days” won the Palme d’Or at Cannes, while his influence extends beyond directing to founding production and distribution companies that promote independent cinema.

Mohammad Rasoulof stands out as a significant voice in contemporary Iranian cinema. His films often challenge the socio-political status quo in Iran, earning him international recognition, including the Golden Bear for “There Is No Evil.” Despite facing censorship at home, Rasoulof continues to create poignant narratives that resonate worldwide.

Fernanda Torres is an accomplished actress and writer with a career spanning decades, recognized for her powerful performances and storytelling in both film and theatre. Having won the Palme d’Or for best actress, she remains a formidable presence in the industry, with upcoming projects that showcase her multifaceted talents.

Zhao Tao, celebrated for her collaborations with acclaimed director Jia Zhang-Ke, has made a significant impact in cinematic storytelling since her debut in 2000. Her performances have garnered her numerous awards, solidifying her position as an influential figure in international cinema.

The Venezia 82 jury will bestow several prestigious awards, including the coveted Golden Lion for Best Film and the Coppa Volpi for Best Actor and Actress. The competition promises to highlight the best in global filmmaking, fostering artistic expression and dialogue through cinema.

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