Venice Days 2026: A Tribute to Giorgio Gosetti and a Showcase of Global and Italian Cinema
Venice Days, the esteemed independent sidebar of the Venice International Film Festival, has announced its curated lineup for its 23rd edition, a significant chapter marking the first iteration since the passing of its visionary founder and longtime head, Giorgio Gosetti, in March. Running concurrently with the 83rd Venice International Film Festival from September 2nd to September 12th, 2026, this year’s Venice Days is dedicated to his enduring legacy and profound impact on independent cinema. The program, encompassing both Venice Days and its parallel Italian cinema section, Venice Nights, features an impressive 25 world premieres, with a notable emphasis on female directorial talent, as 14 of these debut films are helmed by women.
A Cinematic Homage and a Celebration of Emerging Voices
The opening film of Venice Days, and a significant entry in competition, is Lili Horvát’s My Notes on Mars. The Hungarian director, acclaimed for her previous work Preparations to Be Together for an Unknown Period of Time, makes her English-language debut with this intriguing science-fiction drama. Starring Mackenzie Davis and Rupert Friend, the film delves into the mysterious disappearance of a young scientist, who later resurfaces at her own memorial service with no recollection of the intervening weeks. This narrative choice immediately positions My Notes on Mars as a film exploring themes of identity, memory, and the uncanny, promising a thought-provoking start to the festival’s independent segment.
The competition slate further highlights a diverse range of international filmmaking. Kuba Dorabialski’s Agata the Writer brings Mia Wasikowska to the screen as an Australian author navigating the complexities of Sarajevo, suggesting a narrative rich in cultural exploration and personal introspection. The period drama The Indies, directed by Pauline Julier and Nicolas Chapoulier, promises a visually arresting journey into the past. Boris Hadžiha and Hoda Taheri’s I Plant My Hand in the Garden offers a compelling hybrid of fiction and documentary, hinting at a unique approach to storytelling. Rounding out the competitive entries is Nicola Sorcinelli’s directorial debut, Balcanica. This marks the sole Italian film in competition, telling the poignant story of an Afghan father and son attempting to flee their homeland after music is banned, with the hope of reaching Europe. The inclusion of Balcanica underscores Venice Days’ commitment to showcasing narratives of displacement and resilience.
Diverse Themes and Global Perspectives
Beyond the competitive selections, Venice Days is set to present a rich tapestry of cinematic experiences. María Aparicio’s Sadness Sometimes, Other Times Revolt explores the lives of two Argentinians in Madrid, a narrative likely to resonate with themes of diaspora and cultural adaptation. Mykyta Gibalenko’s debut film, Camouflage, delves into the experiences of a young Ukrainian in Germany whose sense of separation from his homeland is profoundly shaped by Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. This timely and emotionally charged film is expected to be a significant contribution to discussions on conflict and its human impact. Adding another layer of international representation, Damilola Orimogunje’s family melodrama, Dear Ajayi, will make history as the first Nigerian film to screen in Venice Days competition, a testament to the festival’s expanding global reach and its dedication to amplifying voices from Africa.
The closing film of Venice Days, presented out of competition, is Léa Domenach’s Man’s Skin. This queer feminist musical comedy, set against the backdrop of the Italian Renaissance, boasts the iconic Catherine Deneuve in its cast. The film’s unique premise and star power suggest a visually vibrant and thematically bold conclusion to the sidebar’s cinematic offerings, blending historical context with contemporary sensibilities.
Jury and Awards: Recognizing Excellence in Independent Cinema
The GdA Director’s Award, a prestigious accolade within Venice Days, will be decided by an all-woman jury. Presiding over the deliberations is Spanish filmmaker Carla Simón, celebrated for her critically acclaimed works Alcarràs and Summer 1993. She will be joined by Italian director Sara Fgaier, known for her film Weightless, and Hania Mroué, the director of Beirut’s Metropolis Cinema. This distinguished panel will award a €20,000 ($23,000) cash prize, to be shared between the director and the film’s international distributor, a significant incentive for emerging talent.
In addition to the GdA Director’s Award, the Venice Days audience will have the opportunity to cast their votes for the Audience Award, fostering a direct connection between filmmakers and festival-goers. Furthermore, the Europa Cinemas jury will select the recipient of the Europa Cinemas Label, recognizing outstanding European films within the lineup. This multi-faceted awards structure reflects Venice Days’ commitment to supporting a broad spectrum of independent filmmaking.
Venice Nights: A Spotlight on Italian Cinema
The accompanying Italian cinema section, Venice Nights, will open with Roberta Torre’s Scarpe rotte. Starring Barbara Ronchi, the film is loosely inspired by the life of Natalia Ginzburg and is set against the backdrop of wartime Rome. This historical drama promises to offer a compelling glimpse into a significant period of Italian history, viewed through a personal lens.
The Venice Nights program will also feature a selection of other Italian productions, including Anatomia di un ritratto by Francesco Clerici and Mattia Colombo, Auber 89 by Giuseppe Schillaci, and Domenica capitale – Genere domenicale by Giovanna Giuliani. La leggenda del deserto by Elisabetta Giannini, Memoria del lampo by Riccardo Giacconi, Il mestiere by Beppe Tufarulo, Si sveglia e sbadiglia, il gatto; poi l’amore by Federico Francioni and Samuele Sestieri, and Uno si distrae al bivio by Alessandra Lancellotti complete the Italian showcase, offering a comprehensive overview of contemporary Italian cinematic voices.
Miu Miu Women’s Tales Returns with New Shorts
The ongoing collaboration between Venice Days and the fashion brand Miu Miu, through its Miu Miu Women’s Tales initiative, continues with two new short films. Mona Fastvold, director of The Testament of Ann Lee, presents Discipline. Additionally, French auteur Claire Denis, known for her seminal work Beau Travail, contributes Avec Kim, starring Suzanne Lindon and Kim Gordon. These short films, often characterized by their artistic vision and exploration of female perspectives, add a unique dimension to the festival’s program.
A Hub for Dialogue and Industry Engagement
Beyond the film screenings, Venice Days 2026 will serve as a vibrant hub for industry professionals, filmmakers, and cinephiles. The event will host a series of talks, industry events, and public programs at the Casa degli Autori and Sala Laguna. These activities will include the return of #confronti, the fourth edition of the Declaration of Filmmakers, and a dedicated soundtracks event organized in collaboration with ACMF. The second edition of Africa Chiama will further broaden the festival’s scope, while a new partnership with Venezia CULT will bring renowned cartoonists Leo Ortolani and Dave McKean to the Lido, fostering interdisciplinary artistic exchange.
These ancillary events underscore Venice Days’ commitment to not only showcasing films but also to fostering a dynamic ecosystem for cinematic discourse, collaboration, and the development of new talent. The festival’s role in facilitating these interactions is crucial for the ongoing vitality of independent cinema.
Context and Legacy: The Enduring Influence of Giorgio Gosetti
The passing of Giorgio Gosetti in March 2026 cast a long shadow over the preparations for this year’s Venice Days. Gosetti was instrumental in establishing Venice Days as a vital platform for independent cinema, championing emerging directors and diverse cinematic styles. His vision was characterized by a deep understanding of film as a means of cultural expression and a powerful tool for social commentary. Under his leadership, Venice Days consistently offered a counterpoint to the more mainstream offerings of the main festival, providing a space for risk-taking and artistic innovation.
The dedication of the 23rd edition to his memory is a fitting tribute to his significant contributions. Gosetti’s influence extended beyond his curatorial work; he was a passionate advocate for filmmakers and a respected voice in the international film community. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, but the program he helped shape, and the spirit he instilled, will continue to guide Venice Days.
Supporting Data and Broader Implications
The statistic that over half of the 25 world premieres are directed by women is particularly significant. In an industry that has historically been male-dominated, this statistic reflects a positive trend towards greater gender parity in filmmaking. It suggests that the industry, and festivals like Venice Days, are actively working to provide opportunities for female storytellers to share their unique perspectives. This emphasis on female directors aligns with broader cultural shifts and a growing demand for diverse representation on screen and behind the camera.
The inclusion of films addressing contemporary geopolitical issues, such as Camouflage and Balcanica, highlights cinema’s role in reflecting and responding to the world’s pressing concerns. These films offer audiences an opportunity to engage with complex global challenges through narrative storytelling, fostering empathy and understanding.
The Venice International Film Festival, a venerable institution dating back to 1932, is one of the oldest film festivals in the world and a key event in the cinematic calendar. Venice Days, as its independent sidebar, has carved out its own distinct identity, serving as a crucial incubator for new talent and a showcase for films that might otherwise struggle to find a wider audience. The festival’s ability to maintain such a robust independent section speaks to its commitment to artistic integrity and its role in shaping the future of cinema.
The main Venice International Film Festival is scheduled to announce its competition lineup on Thursday, July 23rd, promising further anticipation for cinephiles worldwide. The comprehensive lineup for Venice Days 2026, with its diverse international offerings and strong focus on emerging talent, solidifies its position as an indispensable component of the Venice International Film Festival and a vital force in the global independent film landscape.
