Alexander Payne Named Jury Chair for 2025 Venice Film Festival

Venice: American director and screenwriter Alexander Payne has been appointed as the chair of the jury for the 2025 Venice Film Festival, as announced by the Venice Biennale on Monday. Payne, renowned for his award-winning films, expressed his enthusiasm and honor at the opportunity to lead the distinguished panel.

According to Ansa News Agency, Payne, who has received two Oscars for Best Adapted Screenplay for his films “Sideways” (2004) and “The Descendants” (2011), acknowledged the challenge of comparing films but emphasized his respect for the Venice Film Festival’s long-standing tradition of celebrating cinema as an art form. “It’s an enormous honour and joy to serve on the jury at Venice,” Payne stated.

The 64-year-old filmmaker will preside over a jury composed of up to nine international members. This jury will be responsible for awarding the festival’s official prizes, including the coveted Golden Lion for best film. The 82nd Venice International Film Festival is set to occur from August 27 to September 6, 2025.