Kelly’s Venice Revival: New Film Set to Premiere at Festival Opening

breaking News: unfinished Erich von stroheim Masterpiece “Queen Kelly” Gets stunning World Premiere at Venice Film Festival

Venice, Italy – The legendary, unfinished film “Queen Kelly,” famously starring Gloria Swanson, is set to make its triumphant return to the screen. This highly anticipated world premiere, meticulously crafted in a 4K reconstruction utilizing newly discovered materials and based on Erich von Stroheim’s original script, promises to unveil the film as its director intended. The event is scheduled for August 26th at the Sala Darsena theater on the Lido, coinciding with a gala celebration featuring a live performance of a new orchestral score composed by U.S.artist Eli Denson.

Originally conceived by Stroheim as “The Swamp,” “Queen Kelly” was an ambitious undertaking for Swanson, marking the director’s eighth silent picture. Production, however, was halted after less than three months, from November 1, 1928, to January 21, 1929. as Variety reported at the time, Swanson, reportedly exasperated by her director’s notorious excesses, instructed financier Joseph Kennedy to cease operations with an accumulated expenditure of $800,000. the film’s production was ultimately shut down by Swanson following the shooting of several “scandalous African sequences,” according to statements from Venice and Milestone Films.

The rediscovered narrative centers on Patricia Kelly (Swanson), a young woman who departs a convent after a dalliance with a dissolute European prince. Their journey to Africa leads to a series of harsh plot developments, culminating in her becoming the madam of a disreputable brothel.This marks a meaningful evolution for “Queen Kelly.” In 1985, Dennis Doros, co-founder of milestone Films – a company renowned for unearthing and distributing vintage cinema – assembled what was then considered a “completed” version of the film, which debuted at the 42nd Venice Film Festival. now, four decades later, Doros has revisited the project. Through extensive new research, unparalleled access to original nitrate materials, and the transformative power of digital restoration, he has achieved a “gorgeous new reimagining of this lost masterpiece,” as described in a recent statement.

Milestone Films, which distributes its titles globally via Kino Lorber, is bringing this revitalized cinematic treasure to audiences.The 82nd Venice Film Festival will run from August 27th to September 6th, with the full lineup to be announced on July 22nd.

How does Anya kelly’s new film connect to teh past and cultural context of 1920s Venice?

A Return to Form for Acclaimed Director

Renowned filmmaker Anya Kelly is poised to unveil her latest project,a visually stunning and emotionally resonant drama titled “The Gilded Hours,” at the opening night of the prestigious Venice Film Festival. This premiere marks a meaningful moment,not just for Kelly,but for cinephiles anticipating a return to the director’s signature style – a blend of intimate character studies and breathtaking cinematography. The film, a period piece set in 1920s Venice, has already generated considerable buzz within the industry, with early screenings described as “mesmerizing” and “a masterclass in storytelling.”

The Story Behind “The Gilded Hours”

“The Gilded Hours” centers around the life of Isabella Rossi, a talented but overlooked artist navigating the complexities of Venetian society during the roaring twenties. The narrative explores themes of artistic expression, societal constraints, and forbidden love against the backdrop of a city steeped in history and intrigue.

Key plot points include:

Isabella’s Struggle: Her fight for recognition in a male-dominated art world.

A Secret Affair: A passionate, yet perilous, romance with a visiting American composer.

Venice as a Character: The city itself plays a crucial role, influencing the characters and driving the narrative.

The film’s script, penned by Kelly herself, draws inspiration from the letters and diaries of several female artists who lived and worked in Venice during the interwar period.This dedication to historical accuracy adds a layer of authenticity to the story.

The Cast and Creative Team

kelly has assembled a stellar cast for “The Gilded Hours,” led by rising star Sofia Bianchi as Isabella Rossi. Bianchi’s performance is already being lauded as a potential award-winner. Supporting roles are filled by veteran actors Alessandro Moretti and Isabelle Dubois, adding further gravitas to the production.

Beyond the actors, the film boasts an notable creative team:

Cinematography: Marco bellini, known for his work on critically acclaimed Italian dramas.

costume Design: Renata Rossi (no relation to the character), a specialist in period costumes.

Original Score: Composed by the award-winning American composer, Julian Vance.

Filming Locations and Production Design

The majority of “The Gilded hours” was filmed on location in venice, utilizing iconic landmarks and hidden gems to create an immersive and visually captivating experience. Production designers meticulously recreated the atmosphere of 1920s Venice, paying close attention to detail in everything from the architecture to the fashion.

Specific locations include:

1. Palazzo Ducale: Used for grand ballroom scenes.
2. Rialto Bridge: Featured prominently in several key moments.
3. Quiet Canals: Providing intimate settings for character interactions.
4. Murano Glass Factories: Showcasing the artistry of Venetian glassblowing.

Venice Film Festival: A Platform for Artistic Excellence

The Venice Film Festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, known for showcasing both established auteurs and emerging talent. Its opening night premiere is a coveted slot,frequently enough launching films into awards season contention. The festival’s history is rich with groundbreaking cinematic achievements,and Kelly’s inclusion signals a strong belief in the quality and artistic merit of “The Gilded Hours.” Past Venice Film Festival highlights include premieres of films by directors like Federico Fellini, Alfred Hitchcock, and Sofia Coppola.

Early Reactions and Awards Buzz

Initial reactions to “The Gilded Hours” have been overwhelmingly positive. Critics have praised Kelly’s direction, Bianchi’s performance, and the film’s stunning visuals. Speculation is already mounting regarding potential awards nominations, with many predicting a strong showing at the upcoming Academy Awards. Key talking points include the film’s exploration of female empowerment and its evocative portrayal of a bygone era. The film is being positioned as a strong contender for the Golden Lion, the festival’s highest honor.

The Impact of “The Gilded Hours” on venice Tourism

Beyond its artistic merits, “The Gilded Hours” is expected to have a positive impact on tourism in Venice. the film’s stunning visuals are likely to inspire viewers to visit the city and experience its beauty firsthand. Local businesses are anticipating an increase in visitors, especially those interested in exploring the film’s locations. The Venice tourism board has already launched a campaign highlighting the film and its connection to the city. This film could boost venice travel, Italian cinema, and historical dramas.