Venice Hot List: Noteworthy Film Titles and Potential Deals at the 2023 Film Festival

 



The Venice Film Festival has always had a distinct charm, offering a more relaxed atmosphere compared to other major film festivals like Cannes, Berlin, or Toronto. 


While it may not have been a hub for big movie deals in the past, this year's lineup is poised to change that narrative. With numerous high-profile films lacking major distribution, the festival presents an opportunity for savvy buyers to spot potential bargains. 


Among the intriguing offerings this year are a mainstream action comedy from Richard Linklater, an avant-garde project starring Travis Scott, and the final film from the late William Friedkin. 


In this article, we delve into some of the prime targets for dealmakers at the 2023 Venice Film Festival.


Evil Does Not Exist and Priscilla: Deals Already in Place

Leading up to the festival, domestic rights for Ryûsuke Hamaguchi’s follow-up to Drive My Car, titled "Evil Does Not Exist," were secured by Sideshow and Janus Films.


Additionally, Mubi acquired distribution rights for Sophia Coppola’s "Priscilla" for various markets, including the U.K., Germany, Latin America, and Turkey. 


These early acquisitions highlight the growing interest in the festival and set the stage for more potential deals.


Aggro Dr1ft: Harmony Korine's Avant-Garde Action

Director Harmony Korine, known for his unconventional films like "Spring Breakers" and "Trash Humpers," is set to bring "Aggro Dr1ft" to the festival. 


This experimental action film shot entirely in infrared, stars rap superstar Travis Scott alongside Spanish actor Jordi Mollà. 


The film's unique approach and the pairing of Scott and Mollà make it an appealing prospect for cutting-edge indie distributors worldwide.


The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial: William Friedkin's Final Work:

The late William Friedkin's final directorial project, "The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial," presents a poignant opportunity for buyers. 


A modern-day update of Herman Wouk’s acclaimed novel, the film stars Kiefer Sutherland, Jason Clarke, and Lance Reddick. The recent passing of both Friedkin and Reddick adds emotional weight to the film's legacy. 


With its showtime airing in the U.S., the film could attract specialty theatrical buyers internationally.


Day of the Fight: Jack Huston's Impressive Debut:

Actor-turned-director Jack Huston's debut feature "Day of the Fight" combines the genre appeal of an underdog boxing tale with a standout ensemble cast. 


Starring Michael Pitt, Nicolette Robinson, Ron Perlman, Joe Pesci, John Magaro, and Anatol Yusef, the film offers both a compelling story and a talented lineup that could draw the attention of potential buyers.


Finally Dawn: Nostalgic Coming-of-Age Drama:

Saverio Costanzo's "Finally Dawn" takes viewers back to the 1950s at Cinecittà, where the Rome backlot was dubbed "Hollywood on the Tiber." 


This coming-of-age drama set over a single night is a likely fit for mainstream art house buyers and could emerge as a dark-horse contender for awards recognition.


Hit Man: Action Comedy with Wide Appeal:


Richard Linklater's "Hit Man" is an action comedy that garnered significant pre-sales success in Toronto last year.


With star Glen Powell playing an undercover police officer who poses as a contract killer, the film's global appeal led to deals across Europe and Latin America. 


The film is poised to secure more distribution agreements, including a potential major U.S. deal around the time of the Venice festival.


I Know Your Soul: Jasmila Zbanić's Compelling Drama

Bosnian director Jasmila Zbanić, known for her Oscar-nominated drama "Quo Vadis, Aida?," ventured into the world of TV with an episode of the HBO hit series "The Last of Us." 


Her new six-part series, "I Know Your Soul," follows public prosecutor Jasna Djuricić as she navigates the challenges of her professional and personal life. 


The show's success could attract interest from streaming platforms and pay TV buyers.


Io Capitano: Matteo Garrone's Timely Tale:

Director Matteo Garrone, recognized for films like "Gomorrah" and "Tale of Tales," presents "Io Capitano.


The film follows the harrowing journey of two young refugees from Dakar to Europe, making it an incredibly topical and relevant story in today's world. 


Garrone's reputation in the international art-house market adds to the film's potential appeal.


Untitled Michel Franco Project: Star-Studded Drama


Director Michel Franco's latest project features powerhouse performers Jessica Chastain and Peter Sarsgaard. 


The duo portrays a couple grappling with trauma and dementia while attempting to build their relationship. 


While Franco's films are known for their depth and complexity, the star power of Chastain and Sarsgaard is sure to attract attention from buyers.


Pet Shop Days: A Debut with Artistic Pedigree


Director Olmo Schnabel, son of acclaimed painter and director Julian Schnabel, makes his directorial debut with "Pet Shop Days.


The coming-of-age romance set in New York features a strong cast, including Darío Yazbek Bernal, Jack Irv, Willem Dafoe, and Peter Sarsgaard. 


The film's combination of a promising newcomer and an impressive supporting cast positions it as a project to watch.


The Promised Land: A Danish Period Drama:


"Nikolaj Arcel's "The Promised Land" reunites star Mads Mikkelsen with the director of the Oscar-nominated "A Royal Affair.


The Danish period drama, based on a true story, follows the colonization efforts in Denmark's last wild region in the mid-1700s. With Magnolia already securing U.S. rights, the film is a strong contender for international distribution deals.



The 2023 Venice Film Festival is poised to be a hotbed of potential deals, as numerous captivating films hit the Lido without major distribution. 


From avant-garde experiments to star-studded dramas, the lineup offers a diverse array of titles that could capture the attention of distributors and audiences worldwide. 


As the festival unfolds, the film industry will undoubtedly witness the emergence of new deals and partnerships, reshaping Venice's reputation on the global cinema stage.








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