The Venice Film Festival (Mostra Internazionale d'Arte Cinematografica), held annually in Venice, Italy, is the world's oldest film festival and one of the prestigious "Big Five" international film events. Established in August 1932 by Giuseppe Volpi as part of the broader Venice Biennale, it emerged from a strong public interest in cinema and a desire to celebrate Italian culture. The inaugural festival, which opened with "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" on August 6, 1932, involved nine countries and awarded no official prizes, instead using an audience referendum to honor films like "À Nous la Liberté" and actors such as Helen Hayes and Fredric March.
Now taking place on the island of the Lido in late August and early September, the festival is a lively cultural hub, attracting filmmakers and actors with its events and screenings at the historic Palazzo del Cinema. Beyond its vibrant atmosphere, Venice has become a crucial launchpad for many critically acclaimed international and American productions, significantly influencing films' chances for major awards, including the Academy Awards.