The 73rd Venice Film Festival
opened last night in a somber mood, with thoughts still on the
August 24 earthquake that rocked central Italy, killing 293
people.
Polish director Jerzy Skolimowksi, whom Jeremy Irons
presented with the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the
opening ceremony, said "it's not a time to rejoice".
The festival's godmother Sonia Bergamasco echoed his
sentiment and called for "concrete action".
"It's in these times that we rediscover the value and
meaning of community, and the filmmaking community will be ready
to do its part".
Following the opening ceremony and screening of the Damien
Chazelle musical "La La Land" starring Emma Stone and Ryan
Gosling, the traditional gala celebration was cancelled this
year in light of the tragedy.
Jury president Sam Mendes officially opened the festival,
and said "all 20 films in competition for me are already
winners".
The Venice Film Festival runs through September 10.
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