Oman today_ Alexander Payne, the Oscar-winning director, has been appointed as the President of the Jury for the 2025 Venice Film Festival. He previously showcased his film Downsizing at the 2017 Venice Film Festival. Alberto Barbera, the artistic director of the festival, praised Payne as someone with a deep understanding of cinema and a strong background in screenwriting, calling him an ideal choice for this role. In response to the appointment, Payne described it as a great honor.
Payne, who has won two Oscars for Best Adapted Screenplay, has earned 24 Academy Award nominations for his works, including Citizen Ruth, Election, About Schmidt, and Nebraska. His most recent film, The Holdovers, won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 2024.
Payne is also preparing a new project set in rural Denmark, with details about the story yet to be revealed. The 2025 Venice Film Festival will take place from August 27 to September 6.