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21 films compete for Golden Lion at Venice Film Festival

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Jules Giessler
August 28, 2025

The Venice International Film Festival has kicked off with star power and world politics sharing the spotlight. Twenty-one films are competing for the top prize, the Golden Lion. German filmmaker Werner Herzog has already been honored with a special lifetime achievement award.

The 82nd Venice International Film Festival has opened with a dazzling red carpet and a tribute to legendary German filmmaker Werner Herzog, honored for his lifetime achievements.

Herzog, known for his intense cinematic style, will also debut his documentary "Ghost Elephants." Director Francis Ford Coppola praised Herzog's legacy on Wednesday, calling it unmatched.

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