The Venice Film Festival confirmed on Thursday what has been rumored for weeks: Darren Aronofsky’s psychological thriller “Black Swan” will be the opening-night attraction at the 67th festival, which kicks off on September 1.
Aronofsky’s last film, “The Wrestler,” won the Golden Lion award at Venice in 2008. His film before that, “The Fountain,” screened at the festival in 2006.
“Black Swan” should provide the requisite star power on the Venice red carpet, with a cast that includes Natalie Portman (right), Mila Kunis, Winona Ryder and Barbara Hershey. The Fox Searchlight film is set in the world of ballet, with Portman and Kunis playing rival dancers.
In a statement issued with the announcement, Aronofsky said, “The cast and crew of ‘Black Swan’ are both excited and humbled by the festival’s invitation. It is an honor to walk the great red carpet on the Lido and we are excited to premiere our film to the wonderful audiences in Venice.”
Besides “The Wrestler,” Aronofsky’s previous films include “The Fountain,” “Requiem for a Dream” and “Pi.”
Venice was reportedly eager to book Terrence Malick’s long-delayed “The Tree of Life” this year, but that film remains under wraps, although it was recently submitted to the MPAA’s ratings board, where it received at PG-13 rating.
The Venice Film Festival runs from September 1 through September 11.
