The 81st Venice International Film Festival concluded on September 7th, with Spanish director Pedro Almodóvar taking home the prestigious Golden Lion award for his first English-language film, ‘The Room Next Door.’ The film, starring renowned actresses Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton, delves into the complexities of female friendship and the sensitive topic of assisted dying. Following its screening, the film received a remarkable 17-minute standing ovation from the audience, signifying its profound impact.
During his acceptance speech, Almodóvar expressed gratitude to his leading ladies, stating, “This is my first English-language film, but its soul is in Spanish.” Almodóvar has a history of success at the Venice Film Festival, having premiered his previous film, ‘Parallel Mothers’ (2021), which garnered Penelope Cruz an award for Best Actress. Furthermore, he was awarded the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement in 2019 and previously won the Best Screenplay award for ‘Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown’ in 1989.
Other noteworthy winners include Maura Delpero, whose war-themed film ‘Vermiglio’ secured the Silver Lion (Jury Grand Prize). The Silver Lion for Best Director went to Brady Corbet for his film ‘The Brutalist.’ Vincent Lindon won Best Actor for his role in ‘The Quiet Son,’ while Nicole Kidman received the Best Actress award for her performance in ‘Babygirl.’ Sadly, due to the passing of her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, Nicole Kidman was forced to return to Australia, prompting director Halina Reijn to read her acceptance speech on her behalf.
In her statement, Kidman expressed deep sorrow at the loss of her mother, stating, “I just arrived in Venice and was immediately told about the passing of my beautiful and brave mother Janelle Ann Kidman. I am devastated and need to be with my family. I dedicate this award to my mother who shaped, guided, and made me. I am deeply grateful that Halina can say my mother’s name for you all. The collision of life and art is heartbreaking. My heart is torn apart right now.”
