Italian
Venice Immersive: A deep dive into the future of storytelling
The Venice Film Festival has always been a beacon for cinematic innovation, and this year, it takes a bold step into the realm of Extended Reality (XR) with Venice Immersive. From August 29 to September 7, the island of Lazzaretto Vecchio will transform into a hub of virtual worlds, interactive installations, and immersive experiences. With 63 projects from 25 countries, this year’s lineup promises to push the boundaries of storytelling.
The competition: A showcase of global talent
The competition section features 26 projects, including 19 world premieres and seven international premieres. These works span various genres and formats, from virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) to haptic installations and live performances.
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“Mamie Lou” by Isabelle Andreani (France, Luxembourg, 25’, virtual reality)
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“Mammary Mountain” by Tara Baoth Mooney, Camille C. Baker, Maf’j Alvarez (U.K., Ireland, 23’, installation, haptic, virtual reality)
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“Bodies of Water” by Chélanie Beaudin-Quintin, Caroline Laurin-Beaucage (Canada, 10’, virtual reality)
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“Uncanny Alley: A New Day” by Stephen Butchko, Rick Treweek (U.S., South Africa, 75’, world, virtual reality, immersive theater)
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“In the Realm of Ripley” by Soo Eung Chuck Chae, Eun Jung Chae (South Korea, 50’, installation, virtual reality, interactive film)
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Out of competition: Celebrating the best of XR
The Out of Competition section features 30 projects, divided into “Best of Experiences” and “Best of Worlds.” These works have already made waves in other festivals or platforms and are now being showcased for their exceptional quality.
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“Turbulence: Jamais Vu” by Ben Joseph Andrews, Emma Roberts (Australia, 10’, installation, virtual reality)
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“What If…? – An Immersive Story” by Dave Bushore (U.S., 50’, mixed reality)
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“40 Days Without the Sun” by Joao Furia (Brazil, 15’, virtual reality)
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“Nightmara: Episode 3” by Gianpaolo Gonzalez (U.S.,14’, virtual reality)
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“Astra” by Eliza Mcnitt (France, U.S., 60’, mixed reality)
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Biennale College Cinema – Immersive: Nurturing new voices
The Biennale College Cinema – Immersive section features seven projects developed during the international workshop. These works are the result of a rigorous creative process, supported by grants and mentorship.
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“Earths to Come” by Rose Bond (U.S., 13’, virtual reality)
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“Duchampiana” by Lilian Hess (France, Germany, 10’, installation, virtual reality)
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“Garden Alchemy” by Michelle Kranot, Uri Kranot (Denmark, 45’, installation, virtual reality)
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“Somewhere Unknown in Indochina” by Asio Chihsiung Liu, Feng Ting Tsou (Taipei, Belgium, Canada, Vietnam, Cambodia, 38’, virtual reality)
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The jury: A blend of expertise and vision
The international jury, led by Celine Daemen, includes Marion Burger and Adriaan Lokman. These experts bring a wealth of experience in transdisciplinary art, production design, and cross-media projects. Their task is to award the Venice Immersive Grand Prize, the Venice Immersive Special Jury Prize, and the Venice Immersive Achievement Prize.
Personal reflections: The future of storytelling
As we delve into these immersive experiences, it’s clear that the future of storytelling lies in the convergence of technology and creativity. The projects showcased at Venice Immersive are not just pushing the boundaries of what is possible; they are redefining how we engage with narratives. From the tactile sensations of haptic installations to the emotional depth of VR operas, these works offer a glimpse into a new era of storytelling.
The Venice Film Festival’s commitment to XR is a testament to its forward-thinking approach. By embracing these new forms of media, the festival is not only staying relevant but also leading the charge into uncharted territories. As we explore these virtual worlds, we are reminded of the limitless possibilities that lie ahead.
Venice Immersive is more than just a showcase of technology; it’s a celebration of human creativity and the endless potential of storytelling. As we navigate these new landscapes, we are invited to reflect on our own experiences and imagine the stories yet to be told.
