Sigourney Weaver shines at Venice Film Festival with Lifetime Achievement Award

Sigourney Weaver received the Golden Lion at the 2024 Venice Film Festival connecting her work to female empowerment.

The opening night of the 2024 Venice Film Festival belonged to Sigourney Weaver, who was honoured with the prestigious Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement.

 The award celebrates Weaver's illustrious career spanning 45 years, encompassing iconic roles in films like "Alien," "Avatar," and "Gorillas in the Mist."   

Weaver, visibly moved by the recognition, expressed her disbelief and gratitude, referring to the award as "jet fuel of encouragement." She humorously added that the Golden Lion statue would become a constant companion, even joining her and her husband in bed.   

The tribute to Weaver included a surprise video message from "Avatar" director James Cameron, who playfully lamented her lack of an Oscar, and a heartfelt speech from French actress Camille Cottin, praising Weaver's defiance of conventional Hollywood beauty standards.   

Earlier in the day, Weaver became emotional during a press conference when a reporter suggested that her portrayal of Ripley in "Alien" might have paved the way for female empowerment on screen, potentially influencing figures like Vice President Kamala Harris. Weaver expressed her pride and joy at the thought of her work having such an impact, underscoring the significance of representation in film.