In a fervent prelude to the Venice Film Festival, David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter’s esteemed chief film critic, has disclosed his highly anticipated selections from the lineup of premieres. A roster brimming with illustrious directors promises a diverse cinematic experience, including visionary creators Sofia Coppola, Bradley Cooper, Ava DuVernay, David Fincher, Ryusuke Hamaguchi, Yorgos Lanthimos, and Michael Mann.
‘Ferrari,’ ‘Priscilla,’ ‘Evil Does Not Exist,’
‘Maestro’ and ‘Poor Things’
EL CONDE:
Chilean director Pablo Larraín, known for his captivating works centered around resilient women in the public eye, takes a bold step back to his thematic roots. His latest endeavor, “El Conde,” unfurls as a dark comedy steeped in horror. Larraín crafts a satirical and politically charged narrative that envisions the notorious dictator of the Pinochet regime as a vampire, dwelling in isolation and evading justice. At the ripe age of 250, the vampire dictator grapples with an existential crisis, questioning the worth of his prolonged existence.
EVIL DOES NOT EXIST:
Japanese auteur Ryusuke Hamaguchi, renowned for his delicate exploration of profound themes, follows up his Oscar-winning masterpiece “Drive My Car” with “Evil Does Not Exist.” This poignant tale portrays a single father and his young daughter dwelling in serene harmony with nature. Their idyllic life faces disruption when corporate plans to establish a luxury camping site endanger the ecological balance of their rural village. The film embarks on a journey of ecological preservation and familial bonds, featuring a talented cast led by Hitoshi Omika and Ryo Nishikawa.
FERRARI:
Michael Mann, celebrated for his vibrant directorial style, delves into the gripping narrative of Italian sportscar mogul Enzo Ferrari. Set in 1957, the film stars Adam Driver as the ex-Formula 1 driver grappling with financial turmoil and personal tragedy. Mann’s signature kinetic energy intertwines with a tale of risk and redemption, as Enzo Ferrari places everything on the line for a treacherous cross-country race. The ensemble cast, including Penélope Cruz and Shailene Woodley, further enriches this high-octane drama.
THE KILLER:
Masterful director David Fincher, renowned for his exploration of murder’s intricate psyche, returns with “The Killer.” Based on a long-awaited French graphic novel adaptation, Fincher collaborates with Michael Fassbender to portray a hired assassin teetering on the brink of chaos. A near-miss incident sends the titular character on an international odyssey, prompting a harrowing manhunt that blurs the boundaries of sanity. The film’s stellar ensemble, including Tilda Swinton, adds depth to this psychological action thriller.
MAESTRO:
Bradley Cooper, who made an indelible mark with “A Star is Born,” revisits the director’s chair for “Maestro.” The film delves into the intricate relationship between composer Leonard Bernstein, played by Cooper, and actress Felicia Montealegre, portrayed by Carey Mulligan. Their enduring marriage, despite personal complexities, forms the heart of this intimate exploration of celebrity. With producers like Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg on board, and a cast including Matt Bomer and Maya Hawke, “Maestro” promises a resonant cinematic experience.
MEMORY:
Michel Franco, known for his unflinching portrayal of class dynamics and human vulnerability, delivers “Memory.” This poignant drama follows Jessica Chastain and Peter Sarsgaard as they grapple with past wounds at a high school reunion. Franco’s exploration of trust and connection is heightened by a supporting cast that includes Merritt Wever and Josh Charles, promising an emotionally charged narrative.
ORIGIN:
Ava DuVernay, known for her compelling storytelling, returns to features with “Origin.” Adapted from Isabel Wilkerson’s acclaimed nonfiction work, the film delves into the unspoken societal divisions that have shaped America’s trajectory. With a formidable cast led by Jon Bernthal and Vera Farmiga, “Origin” offers a timely exploration of enduring social dynamics amid contemporary political shifts.
POOR THINGS:
Yorgos Lanthimos, celebrated for his distinctive narratives, reunites with screenwriter Tony McNamara and Emma Stone for “Poor Things.” This fantastical tale thrusts a young woman from the 19th century into a world of emancipation and experience, guided by a maverick scientist portrayed by Willem Dafoe. Lanthimos’ signature surrealism is enriched by a diverse ensemble cast, resulting in an intriguing cinematic endeavor.
PRISCILLA:
Sofia Coppola, lauded for her intimate character studies, redirects her lens to an iconic narrative in “Priscilla.” Shifting the focus away from Elvis, Coppola explores the life-altering love affair between Priscilla Presley and the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. With Jacob Elordi and Cailee Spaeny in the lead roles, the film offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal cultural figure.
THE PROMISED LAND:
Director Nikolaj Arcel, renowned for his previous successes, reunites with Mads Mikkelsen for “The Promised Land.” Set in the 18th century, this epic chronicle follows a soldier’s unwavering quest for honor and wealth against all odds. Arcel’s captivating storytelling intertwines with Mikkelsen’s riveting performance, promising an immersive historical journey.
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Report Blitz journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.