'The Exorcist' actor Ellen Burstyn to receive Golden Lion at Venice International Film Festival
Los Angeles, July 14
Hollywood actress Ellen Burstyn, known for her work in 'The Last Picture Show', 'The Exorcist', and 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore', will receive the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival.
The festival's artistic director, Alberto Barbera, described Burstyn as an "actress of rare intensity and truth."
"She had brought depth and complexity to unforgettable female characters embodying the contradictions and transformations in the contemporary woman. Revealed in Peter Bogdanovich's 'The Last Picture Show,' which portrayed the twilight of small-town America, and elevated to global stardom by the success of William Friedkin's 'The Exorcist,' Burstyn won the Oscar for best actress for Martin Scorsese's 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore,' the film manifesto about women reclaiming their identity and their freedom," Barbera said, as quoted by Variety.
He went on to note how Burstyn has worked with "some of the most important film directors of the time."
Barbera emphasised how "Burstyn made fragility and methodical discipline the tools of an approach to acting grounded in emotional truth, attentiveness and generosity toward one's characters. Her artistry, which could illuminate pain and everyday resilience with dignity, irony and courage, remains an absolute model of authenticity in performance and civic engagement within the craft of acting."
Reacting to the milestone, Ellen Burstyn expressed much gratitude as she shared, "Wow! I not only get to travel to one of my top most favorite cities in the whole world, I get to return home carrying a Golden Lion in my arms! The Lifetime Achievement Award from the Venice Film Festival! I feel so honored-- so happy -- so filled with gratitude! Wow indeed!" as quoted by Variety.
Burstyn will receive the honour on the occasion of the screening of Maggie Gyllenhaal's short film 'Flesh Impact'.
Dedicated to Marilyn Monroe, the film follows Burstyn's "uncommon talent as a performer."
The 83rd Venice Film Festival is set to run between September 2-12.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, I'm more excited about the Venice Film Festival happening! It's great to see legends like Burstyn being celebrated. *Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore* is a film I recommend to all my friends who love strong female narratives. Her Oscar was well-earned. 👏
Solid choice. She's one of the few actresses who can do horror, drama, and comedy with equal skill. *The Last Picture Show* is a masterpiece of American cinema. Glad the international festivals are still honouring such talent.
I hope this inspires more recognition for veteran artists across the world. In India, we often overlook our legends until it's too late. Burstyn's career is a masterclass in dedication. Also, Maggie Gyllenhaal directing a short for her? That's a beautiful collaboration! 🙌
Her reaction is so heartwarming: "Wow indeed!" She seems genuinely touched. It's nice to see humility from someone who has achieved so much. That short film dedicated to Marilyn Monroe sounds intriguing. Definitely adds a layer of depth to her legacy.
While I respect the award, I wonder if the festival could recognise more diverse talents from Asia or Africa. That said, Burstyn is undeniably iconic. *The Exorcist* remains a cultural phenomenon. Her scream alone is legendary! 😅
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