The 82nd Venice Film Festival has concluded, but discussions about the films, fashion, and potential Oscar contenders continue. This year’s festival featured notable moments and significant awards.

Jim Jarmusch’s film “Father Mother Sister Brother” won the prestigious Golden Lion, surprising many who anticipated that “The Voice of Hind Rajab” would take the top honor. Instead, it received the runner-up award, while “No Other Choice” also garnered attention. Benny Safdie won the Best Director award for “The Smashing Machine.” The festival favored a diverse international selection, leaving Hollywood largely unrecognized.

Chinese actor Xin Zhilei was awarded Best Actress for her role in “The Sun Rises on Us All.” Italian actor Toni Servillo won Best Actor for “La Grazia,” and Swiss actress Luna Wedler received the Marcello Mastroianni Award for her performance in “Silent Friend.”

As for potential Oscar contenders, the festival did not provide clear indicators. However, Venice has historically launched successful best actor campaigns, including Joaquin Phoenix for “Joker” and Brendan Fraser for “The Whale.” This year, Dwayne Johnson is seen as a strong candidate for his portrayal of MMA fighter Mark Kerr in “The Smashing Machine.” Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons also delivered compelling performances in Yorgos Lanthimos’s “Bugonia.”

Seth Rogen made a notable appearance throughout the festival, attending red carpets, press conferences, and parties. His presence sparked speculation about a possible Venice-themed episode of “The Studio.”

In a light-hearted moment, Amanda Seyfried and Julia Roberts shared a fashion moment when Seyfried commented on Roberts’ Instagram, asking to wear the same Versace outfit. Just days later, Seyfried was seen in a similar ensemble, showcasing their stylist’s influence.

The festival also witnessed a record-setting standing ovation. The premiere of “The Voice of Hind Rajab” received applause for 22 minutes, surpassing last year’s record of 18 minutes for “The Room Next Door.” Other films received varying lengths of ovations, with “After the Hunt” receiving about five minutes and “Frankenstein” about 14 minutes.

Political themes were prevalent in many films. Kathryn Bigelow’s thriller “A House of Dynamite” addressed nuclear weapons, while Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania’s “The Voice of Hind Rajab” highlighted the human toll of the Gaza conflict. Olivier Assayas’s film “The Wizard of the Kremlin” explored Vladimir Putin’s rise to power. Off-screen, discussions about Gaza included a protest that attracted around 10,000 participants.

Several quotes from the festival captured the mood and themes discussed:

- Jacob Elordi remarked, “The real monsters are the men in suits,” referring to his role as Frankenstein’s monster. - Dwayne Johnson expressed, “I’ve been very fortunate to have the career that I’ve had... but there was just this voice inside of me, this little voice, like what if I can do more.” - Jim Jarmusch commented, “I consider pretty much all corporate money is dirty money,” when discussing funding sources. - Kathryn Bigelow questioned, “How is annihilating the world a good defensive measure?” in relation to nuclear stockpiles. - Yorgos Lanthimos warned, “Humanity is facing a reckoning very soon,” emphasizing the urgency of the themes in “Bugonia.” - Julia Roberts noted, “Everyone comes out with all these different feelings and emotions... So, you’re welcome,” reflecting on the debates sparked by “After the Hunt.” - Kim Novak, at 92, shared her thoughts on receiving a lifetime achievement award, stating, “It’s time at the end of your life to put the puzzle pieces together and make them fit.”

The Venice Film Festival continues to be a significant platform for filmmakers and actors, shaping conversations in the film industry.