Highlights from the 2024 Venice Film Festival: Critic's Picks and Pans

The 2024 Venice Film Festival, a cornerstone event for cinematic premieres, showcased an array of films that stirred both admiration and disappointment among critics and audiences alike. Leading the pack was "The Brutalist," a biographical epic starring Adrien Brody and Felicity Jones, which received a five-star rating for its deep narrative and stunning visuals, positioning it as a strong contender for major awards.

On the other hand, "Wolfs," featuring Brad Pitt and George Clooney, failed to impress, earning just two stars. Critics labeled the film as a painfully derivative buddy movie lacking the charm and ingenuity expected from such high-caliber stars. This stark contrast in critical reception highlighted the diverse offerings at the festival.

Other notable entries included "Maria," starring Angelina Jolie as opera legend Maria Callas, which critics found underwhelming, suggesting that Jolie’s performance bordered on parody. Conversely, "Babygirl," with Nicole Kidman playing a CEO entangled in a scandalous affair, was praised for its daring narrative and Kidman’s compelling performance, earning four stars.

The festival also marked the return of eroticism in cinema, as noted by artistic director Alberto Barbera, with films like "Queer" and "Babygirl" exploring bold themes of sexuality and personal freedom. This thematic boldness was a significant highlight of the festival, reflecting evolving cinematic trends and audience appetites.

As the festival wrapped up, it left audiences and critics buzzing about potential award-season favorites and films that might not cut. The event not only celebrated current filmmaking achievements but also set the stage for future cinematic endeavors.