The Venice Film Festival has opened its 82nd edition with the world premiere of Paolo Sorrentino's 'La Grazia.' The event, held on the Lido, welcomes a host of international stars and acclaimed filmmakers, with many eagerly anticipated films debuting over the next ten days. Sorrentino's latest work, starring Toni Servillo, marks a departure from his usual style, according to festival director Alberto Barbera, who described it as an unexpected story. Alongside 'La Grazia,' twenty other films are competing for the prestigious Golden Lion prize, including new works by Guillermo del Toro, Kathryn Bigelow, Yorgos Lanthimos, Benny Safdie, and Kaouther Ben Hania. The festival also sees anti-war protesters planning to draw attention to Gaza ahead of the opening night. The Venice Film Festival runs through September 6.