Venice Film Festival 2017: A Triumphant Return for Horror and an Ode to Italian Cinema
Venice, with its winding canals and charming bridges, has always been a city steeped in history and art. Every year, it transforms into a cinematic haven during the prestigious Venice Film Festival. The 74th edition, held in 2017, marked a particularly memorable occasion. It wasn’t just about the dazzling premieres and red carpet glamour; this festival was a testament to the enduring power of horror cinema and a heartfelt celebration of Italian filmmaking heritage.
Guillermo del Toro, the visionary Mexican director known for his hauntingly beautiful films like “Pan’s Labyrinth” and “The Shape of Water,” was chosen to preside over the jury that year. His presence alone injected a dose of artistic gravitas into the proceedings. Del Toro, with his infectious enthusiasm and deep understanding of cinematic storytelling, proved to be an inspiring figurehead for the festival.
But the true star of the 2017 Venice Film Festival wasn’t a single film or director; it was the genre itself: horror.
For decades, horror films have been relegated to the fringes of mainstream cinema, often dismissed as lowbrow entertainment. However, del Toro, alongside the festival organizers, recognized the immense potential and artistic merit inherent in this often-misunderstood genre. They curated a program that showcased both classic and contemporary horror masterpieces, proving that fear could be an equally powerful tool for social commentary and artistic expression.
The festival’s opening night film set the tone perfectly. “Mother!” directed by Darren Aronofsky and starring Jennifer Lawrence and Javier Bardem, was a psychological thriller that explored themes of motherhood, identity, and the destructive nature of obsession. It divided audiences, as any truly great horror film tends to do, provoking intense discussions about its meaning and impact.
The inclusion of Italian cinema in the festival’s lineup further cemented Venice 2017’s significance. Italy has a rich history of producing acclaimed horror films, from the gothic chill of Mario Bava’s “Black Sabbath” to the visceral gore of Dario Argento’s “Suspiria.” The festival paid homage to these masters while also spotlighting emerging Italian talents working in the genre today.
One notable example was the screening of “The Fury of a Patient Man,” directed by Alessio Fiore, a chilling psychological thriller that delved into the darkness lurking within seemingly ordinary individuals. This film, with its atmospheric cinematography and unsettling score, demonstrated the enduring power of Italian horror to unsettle and provoke audiences.
Beyond the screenings themselves, the 2017 Venice Film Festival hosted a series of masterclasses and panel discussions featuring prominent horror filmmakers, critics, and academics. These events provided invaluable insights into the genre’s history, evolution, and future prospects.
The impact of the 2017 Venice Film Festival on the horror genre was undeniable. It helped elevate horror from its niche status to a more mainstream form of cinematic expression, paving the way for a new generation of filmmakers to explore its endless possibilities. More importantly, it reminded us that fear, when wielded effectively, can be a powerful tool for exploring the complexities of the human experience.
Here’s a table summarizing some key highlights of the 2017 Venice Film Festival:
| Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Opening Night Film | “Mother!” directed by Darren Aronofsky |
| Jury President | Guillermo del Toro |
| Italian Horror Showcase | “The Fury of a Patient Man” directed by Alessio Fiore |
Beyond the Screen: The Lasting Legacy of Horror in Italian Cinema
While the 2017 Venice Film Festival served as a pivotal moment for contemporary horror, it’s crucial to acknowledge the enduring legacy of the genre within Italian cinema. From the black-and-white shadows of silent era classics to the gory excesses of giallo films, Italy has consistently produced some of the most innovative and unsettling horror experiences in cinematic history.
- The Pioneers:
Directors like Mario Bava (“Black Sabbath,” “The Girl Who Knew Too Much”), Lucio Fulci (“Zombie,” “The Beyond”), and Dario Argento (“Suspiria,” “Deep Red”) laid the groundwork for Italian horror with their distinct styles and groundbreaking approaches to visual storytelling.
Bava, a master of atmosphere and lighting, created haunting visuals that lingered long after the credits rolled. Fulci’s films were notorious for their graphic violence and surreal imagery, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable on screen. Argento, meanwhile, blended psychological horror with operatic aesthetics, crafting visually stunning and unsettling masterpieces that continue to influence filmmakers today.
- The Giallo Phenomenon:
Emerging in the 1960s and 1970s, giallo films became synonymous with Italian horror. These stylish thrillers typically featured a masked killer stalking beautiful women, intricate plots full of twists and turns, and an emphasis on suspenseful atmosphere. Some notable giallo directors include Sergio Martino (“Torso”), Mario Bava (“Blood and Black Lace”), and Dario Argento (“The Bird with the Crystal Plumage”).
- Contemporary Voices:
Even today, Italian filmmakers continue to explore the depths of horror. Directors like Alessio Fiore (“The Fury of a Patient Man”) and Roberto De Feo (“The House at the End of Time”) are carrying the torch for a new generation of Italian horror filmmakers, blending classic influences with fresh perspectives.
In conclusion, the 2017 Venice Film Festival was more than just a celebration of cinema; it was a recognition of the enduring power and versatility of the horror genre. Thanks in no small part to the contributions of visionary Italian filmmakers, horror continues to be a source of fascination, fear, and artistic exploration for audiences worldwide.
Let’s hope future festivals continue to embrace this thrilling genre with the same enthusiasm and respect it deserves.