American actress and filmmaker, Golden Globes nominee, Oscar-winner-hopeful
Venice has announced its lineup with new titles and a slate that mirrors Cannes in its mix of international cinema and documentaries. TIFF has revealed more than 60 films for its gala and special presentations, signaling its role as a key market ahead of the fall awards race. The two festivals showcase a mix of traditional studio projects and bold indie filmmaking.
The Royal Shakespeare Company has opened The Mad King, a Game of Thrones prequel, in Stratford-upon-Avon. The 3h45m production brings younger versions of familiar figures to the stage with a 36-strong cast and innovative puppetry. Reviews are mixed on pace and poetry, but the project aims to broaden GoT’s reach beyond devoted fans.
Genesis unveils the GV90, its first full-size electric SUV, signaling a bold push into premium markets. The Neolun variant with coach doors and a lounge-like cabin showcases high-end features as Genesis outlines its three pillars—luxury, performance and hospitality—while signaling a broader portfolio development.
Venice Film Festival names NAZA, by Israeli directors Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, as the festival’s only documentary in competition. The film, shot at night from Tel Aviv rooftops, examines what the filmmakers describe as Israel’s calculated mass killing of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. It builds on reporting by +972, Local Call and The Guardian, with production by The Guardian and JW Films and executive producing by Jonathan Glazer. The festival runs 2–12 September.
Venice Film Festival has crowned Woman Unknown as best film, with May el-Toukhy becoming a rare female Golden Lion director. Silver Lion goes to Possible Love; DAU wins best director. A Gaza-focused documentary, NAZA, earns a special jury prize amid record ovations, while John Malkovich wins best actor for Wild Horse Nine.
The Guardian, Business Insider UK, The Guardian and Independent pieces report on Alex Gibney’s four-hour Musk documentary. Ashley St Clair alleges Elon Musk discussed having a child to build a “legion” before civil conflict, with a $40m NDA offer later declined. The film questions Musk’s power, algorithm changes at X, and his political shift. Venice premiere provided a harsh critique of Musk’s influence.
A roundup of couture and bridal looks from Middle Eastern designers and Arab labels featured across Paris, New York, Dubai and London runways and events. The pieces showcase embroidery, architectural silhouettes and cross-border designer collaborations.
The Venice film festival features a four-hour documentary on Elon Musk that critics say is highly critical. Musk has branded the film a hit piece, while director Alex Gibney defends it as rigorous inquiry. The documentary includes AI-generated Musk commentary and details about Musk's business ventures and public presence.