The Venice Film Festival 2025 was a platform for a variety of films, all united by a central theme of emotion, echoing Sam Fuller’s description in the film Pierrot le Fou as the essence of cinema. The notable films of this edition, though from different genres, share a common focus on human experience and emotional reactions. This article reviews four such films: The Smashing Machine, Kim Novak’s Vertigo, The Testament of Ann Lee, and Father Mother Sister Brother.
The Smashing Machine; The Human Face Behind Ring Dominance
The Smashing Machine, directed by Benny Safdie and starring the remarkable Dwayne Johnson, portrays the true story of Mark Kerr, a pioneer of mixed martial arts (MMA). The film follows Kerr’s journey from addiction to victory to wrestling with new, more dangerous addictions. It offers a concise yet intense account of crucial years in his life, focusing on a crisis of confidence and downfall. His loud and supportive girlfriend, along with his complex relationship with friend—and possible rival—Mark Coleman, add layers to the character development. Beyond showcasing physical strength, the film reveals the emotional fragility of a champion and affirms Johnson’s rise as a distinguished actor.
Kim Novak’s Vertigo; A Journey of Self-Discovery in Hollywood’s Spotlight
This documentary, directed by Alexandre O. Philippe, is a portrait of Kim Novak, the iconic Hollywood actress and unforgettable star of Hitchcock’s Vertigo. Now 92, Novak lives a quiet life dedicated to painting and reflects on the highs and lows of her career. Although the film centers on Vertigo, by referencing other works in her career it reveals the artistic and personal layers of Novak. Her candid reminiscences and honest analysis of Hitchcock add to the film’s appeal.
The Testament of Ann Lee; Faith as an Expression of Emotion
The Testament of Ann Lee, directed by Mona Fastvold and featuring a praised performance by Amanda Seyfried, explores the story of Ann Lee, the leader of the Shaker movement. This film, a loose adaptation of historical facts, delves into a character-driven and highly emotional religious narrative. The director integrates musical elements into the story, blending inner complexity with music and song, offering a fresh portrayal of belief and spiritual commitment. Seyfried’s dedication brings a unique emotional tone to the movie.
Father Mother Sister Brother; Exploring Repressed Family Emotions
The latest film by Jim Jarmusch uses a three-part narrative to depict families struggling with suppressed or uncontrolled emotions. The first part features Adam Driver, Mayim Bialik, and Tom Waits in a story reminiscent of O. Henry. The second part, starring Vicky Krieps and Cate Blanchett, highlights chilly sisterly relations, while the final part with Indya Moore and Luka Sabbat portrays twins finding warmth after exploring their deceased parents’ Paris home. The film deals with Jarmusch’s consistent themes of buried feelings and familial conflict, connecting with the audience in a challenging yet distinct manner.
Summary
These four films represent a broad spectrum of contemporary cinema yet are united by a deep emphasis on human emotions: from joy, grief, and triumph to failure, identity search, and belief struggles. Venice Film Festival 2025 clearly demonstrated that great cinema remains centered on the heart and soul of humanity.
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