The 83rd Venice film festival has commenced with a bang, showcasing a lineup of films that are already generating Oscar buzz. Leading the charge is Danny Boyle’s Ink a period piece that delves into the early days of Rupert Murdoch’s media empire. This Studiocanal production, distributed by Netflix in the United States, focuses on Murdoch’s acquisition of the struggling tabloid The Sun and the appointment of Larry Lamb as its editor.
The festival, which runs from September 2-12, also honors two American Oscar-winning veterans, George Clooney and Ellen Burstyn, with Lifetime Achievement Golden Lions. With a diverse range of films from international directors, Venice promises to be a significant bellwether in the Academy Awards race.
Ink: A Cinematic Rollercoaster
Ink stars Jack O’Connell as Larry Lamb, with Guy Pearce portraying Rupert Murdoch. The film also features Claire Foy and Brian Gleeson in supporting roles. While Pearce’s portrayal of Murdoch is more reserved and buttoned-up, O’Connell’s performance as Lamb is drawing comparisons to some of cinema’s greatest villains. Boyle himself has likened O’Connell’s character to Michael Corleone in The Godfather noting the dark places his performance takes the audience.
The film’s production design aims to evoke the atmosphere of The Godfather with Boyle instructing the team to make Murdoch’s office feel akin to the iconic film. The cinematography is equally ambitious, with Boyle and cinematographer Alwin H. Küchler employing innovative techniques, including a ‘poor man’s bullet time’ effect using a 360 camera. The sound design, handled by Oscar winners Simon Hayes and Johnnie Burn, adds layers to the film, enhancing the immersive experience.
Oscar Prospects and Festival Highlights
While Ink is generating significant buzz, the Oscar race is already shaping up to be highly competitive. The Best Actor category, in particular, is expected to be a clash of titans between Ryan Gosling, Matt Damon, and Tom Cruise. Pearce’s performance in Ink could garner a Best Supporting Actor nomination, but the competition is fierce. Similarly, Claire Foy’s role, while compelling, may not be enough to secure her an Oscar nomination given her previous overlooked performances.
The Venice Film Festival is not just about Ink. Other notable premieres include Martin McDonagh’s Wild Horse Nine starring John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell, and Robert Pattinson’s Primetime based on the controversial TV series To Catch a Predator. The festival also features a strong lineup of international films, including Luca Guadagnino’s seven-hour epic Joie de vivre and Lee Chang-dong’s Possible Love.
The Impact of Ink
Ink is likely to stay in the conversation for its entertaining take on a controversial subject. Boyle’s direction marks a return to form, with the film’s low budget allowing for creative risks and innovative storytelling. The adaptation from the 2017 play by James Graham successfully translates the stage production into a cinematic experience, avoiding the pitfalls of feeling like a mere stage play.
As the festival progresses, Ink and other premieres will continue to generate buzz and potentially shape the Oscar race. Boyle’s film, in particular, offers a compelling exploration of the media landscape and the moral costs of sensationalism. With its innovative techniques and strong performances, Ink is a standout entry in the 83rd Venice Film Festival.
