The 82nd edition of the Venice Film Festival wrapped up in grand style this past weekend, as the world’s most celebrated actors, directors, and fashion icons descended upon the Lido for a dazzling display of film and couture. The annual event, which ran from August 27 through September 6, 2025, in Venice, Italy, once again transformed the city’s canals and palazzos into a global stage for cinematic premieres and red carpet statements, according to The Associated Press and Page Six.
From the moment the water taxis began ferrying stars across the lagoon, anticipation buzzed for what new heights the festival would reach this year. The festival’s opening night saw Tilda Swinton, a perennial favorite of fashion editors and cinephiles alike, posing for photographers at the premiere of ‘La Grazia’ on August 27. Swinton’s avant-garde style, paired with her signature poise, set the tone for a week of sartorial risk-taking and cinematic celebration.
Hollywood royalty was out in force, with George Clooney and Amal Clooney turning heads on August 28 as they graced the red carpet for the film ‘Jay Kelly.’ The couple, always a fixture at high-profile events, brought their signature elegance to the festival, with Amal’s ensemble drawing particular praise from fashion critics for its understated glamour. Naomi Watts joined them at the same premiere, further elevating the star power of the evening.
Another much-anticipated appearance came from Julia Roberts, who attended the red carpet for ‘After the Hunt’ on August 29. Roberts, whose megawatt smile and classic style have long made her a favorite among festival-goers, was joined by Andrew Garfield, bringing together two generations of screen talent for the film’s debut. As reported by The Associated Press, both actors took time to greet fans and pose for photographers, embodying the accessible glamour that Venice is known for.
Emma Stone and Dave McCary made a splash on August 28 at the ‘Bugonia’ premiere, while Alicia Silverstone, another ‘Bugonia’ cast member, wowed crowds with her return to the international spotlight. The festival’s blend of established stars and rising talent was also on display at the red carpet for ‘The Last Viking,’ where Ben Foster and Mads Mikkelsen struck powerful poses for the cameras on August 30.
But it wasn’t just the Hollywood elite who captured attention. This year’s festival was notable for its broad international representation and the sheer volume of celebrities in attendance. Page Six highlighted the arrivals of Cate Blanchett, Emily Blunt, Dwayne Johnson, Alexa Chung, Amanda Seyfried, Halsey, Thomasin McKenzie, Kaia Gerber, Lewis Pullman, Maria Borges, Sofia Resing, Georgina Rodriguez, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Jude Law, Vicky Krieps, Indya Moore, and Shailene Woodley, among others. Each arrival brought its own unique fashion moment, from Blanchett’s regal ensembles to Johnson’s unmistakable charisma.
On September 1, Emily Blunt and Dwayne Johnson walked the red carpet for ‘The Smashing Machine,’ a film that had already generated buzz for its bold storytelling and physical performances. Halsey, known for her genre-defying music and fearless fashion, also posed for photographers at the same event, adding a pop culture edge to the proceedings.
‘The Testament Of Ann Lee’ premiere on September 1 was another highlight, with Amanda Seyfried, Thomasin McKenzie, Kaia Gerber, and Lewis Pullman all turning out in support. The film’s cast, representing a mix of established and emerging talent, showcased the Venice Film Festival’s reputation as a launchpad for both blockbuster hits and indie darlings.
The festival’s international flavor was further underscored by Alexa Chung’s appearance at ‘The Wizard Of The Kremlin’ red carpet on August 31, and Alicia Vikander’s stylish turn at the film’s photocall. Meanwhile, Georgina Rodriguez attended the Filming Italy Venice Award photocall on the same day, while Da'Vine Joy Randolph brought her signature energy to both the Filming Italy Venice Award delegation red carpet and press conference.
Jude Law, always a crowd-pleaser, was spotted at the photocall for ‘The Wizard Of The Kremlin,’ while Vicky Krieps and Indya Moore made waves at both the red carpet and photocall for ‘Father Mother Sister Brother’ on August 31. Shailene Woodley, known for her eclectic roles and eco-conscious style, attended the ‘Motor City’ premiere on August 30, adding yet another layer of star power to the festival’s lineup.
Perhaps the most talked-about event of the festival was the premiere of ‘Frankenstein’ on August 30. The red carpet was a veritable who’s who, with Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Mia Goth, Jacob Elordi, Molly Gordon, Paris Jackson, Clara Galle, Oscar Isaac, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Jessica Williams, Kaitlyn Dever, Nathalie Emmanuel, Leslie Bibb, Emilia Jones, Sofia Carson, Callum Turner, and Christoph Waltz all making appearances. Director Guillermo del Toro, joined by Marisa Del Toro and Kim Morgan, posed for photographers, underscoring the film’s pedigree and the festival’s commitment to celebrating both established auteurs and fresh voices.
Fashion, as always, played a starring role at Venice. The Associated Press and Page Six both noted the range of styles on display, from Tilda Swinton’s bold choices to Cate Blanchett’s classic silhouettes and Emma Stone’s playful elegance. The festival’s red carpets became impromptu runways, with designers vying for attention and celebrities taking risks that would be remembered long after the closing credits rolled.
Beyond the glitz, the Venice Film Festival remains a vital platform for filmmakers to showcase their work to an international audience. With stars like Julia Roberts, George Clooney, and Emma Stone lending their gravitas, and a new generation of actors stepping into the spotlight, the 82nd edition proved once again why Venice is both a cinematic and cultural touchstone.
As the sun set over the canals and the last water taxis ferried guests away, the 2025 Venice Film Festival left behind a trail of unforgettable moments, stunning fashion, and a renewed sense of excitement for the future of film.
