First held in 1932 as the Esposizione d’Arte Cinematografica—then just a section of the Biennale—the Venice Film Festival is not only the oldest festival of its kind in the world, but also the most glamorous (with the possible exception of Cannes). Its upcoming 80th edition is set to feature a host of buzzy releases, from Priscilla and Poor Things to Ferrari and Maestro, but in light of the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, it’s still uncertain exactly how many Hollywood heavyweights will receive waivers allowing them to descend on the Lido for the usual cycle of parties and premieres. As we await more news, revisit the most glamorous images from the festival through the years, below.
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Photo: Getty Images
1942
Maria Callas basks in the Italian sunshine in a patterned ’40s swimsuit.
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Photo: Getty Images
1947
Jean Cocteau eyes French actor Jean Marais at a café during the 8th Venice Film Festival.
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Photo: Getty Images
1953
Olivia de Havilland taking a cigarette break with director Anatole Litvak.
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Photo: Getty Images
1972
Diana Ross on the quays of the lagoon during a trip to promote Lady Sings the Blues.
