Venice Film Festival 2025: Murdoch and Musk Films Premiere 2026

The Venice Film Festival is set to make headlines with its 83rd edition, featuring powerful films about media moguls Rupert Murdoch and Elon Musk. Danny Boyle's Ink and Alex Gibney's Musk promise to challenge the titans of print and digital media. This year’s festival, running from September 2, delivers a mix of star power and political commentary.

What to Expect from the Venice Film Festival 2025 Lineup

Artistic director Alberto Barbera has curated a lineup that balances glitz with substance. The festival opens on the Lido with Ink, starring Guy Pearce as Rupert Murdoch. Written by James Graham, the film explores Murdoch’s 1969 acquisition of The Sun and its impact on British media and politics.

Ink: A Closer Look at Murdoch’s Rise

Boyle’s Ink follows the controversial figure who transformed tabloid journalism. Pearce’s portrayal is already generating Oscar buzz. The film dives into the sensationalism that reshaped public discourse.

Musk: A Four-Hour Documentary

Oscar-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney presents Musk, a four-hour documentary profiling the world’s wealthiest person. The film examines Musk’s role as a rightwing provocateur and owner of social platform X. It will screen out of competition but is expected to spark debate.

Other Must-See Films at the Festival

Martin McDonagh returns with Wild Horse Nine, a thriller set in Chile during Pinochet’s coup. The film stars John Malkovich, Sam Rockwell, Steve Buscemi, Tom Waits, and Parker Posey. Robert Pattinson leads Primetime, a psychological thriller inspired by To Catch a Predator. Real-life couple Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem star in Bunker, directed by Florian Zeller.

Key Takeaways from the Venice Film Festival Announcement

• The festival opens with Ink on September 2, focusing on Rupert Murdoch’s media empire.
• Alex Gibney’s Musk offers an in-depth look at Elon Musk’s controversial career.
• Martin McDonagh, Robert Pattinson, and other A-listers bring diverse stories to Venice.
• The festival continues to position itself as the most glamorous of the major European film events.

FAQ

With a mix of hard-hitting biographies and star-studded dramas, the 2025 Venice Film Festival promises to be both entertaining and thought-provoking. Whether you're a film buff or a media enthusiast, this edition offers something for everyone.