The 83rd Venice International Film Festival concluded its 11-day run on September 12, 2026, following an opening led by festival director Alberto Barbera. The event, which began on September 2, featured a jury presided over by American actor and director Maggie Gyllenhaal. The jury panel included Kaouther Ben Hania, Daniel Blumberg, Francesco Casetti, Xavier Giannoli, Shahrbanoo Sadat, and producer Johnnie To.
The festival’s top honor, the Golden Lion, was awarded to Danish director May El-Toukhy for her film Woman Unknown. The production, set in post-World War II Copenhagen, explores themes of female autonomy and historical trauma. In a notable development, the film also secured the award for Best Actress.
The Grand Jury Prize was presented to director Lee Chang-dong for his film If Love Were. The festival also recognized industry veterans with honorary awards. The Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement was awarded to actor and director George Clooney and actress Ellen Burstyn. Italian filmmaker Luca Guadagnino received the Filmmaker of the Year award.
The 2026 selection was characterized by a focus on international collaboration, human rights, and geopolitical conflict. The festival, which took place during a period of high temperatures in Venice, maintained its tradition of highlighting diverse artistic narratives and political discourse within the global film industry.
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