The months from September to November are particularly busy for movie lovers as film festivals unfold all around the globe, debuting some of the most exciting new features of the year to star-studded audiences. With August ending, the oldest event in this realm, the Venice Film Festival , is unfolding in Italy for the 81st time. In 2023, crowds were notably smaller due to the Hollywood actors and writers strike; still, it was a huge moment for Ava DuVernay – the first Black female director to compete in Venice. This year, director Alberto Barbera promises big things on the red carpet and beyond. “After last year’s prolonged strike, there’s a palpable excitement among everyone to return to Venice,” he told Reuters . “I believe this will be the most vibrant red carpet we’ve ever seen. Due to financial constraints faced by production and distribution companies, many attendees are covering their own travel and accommodation costs to be part of the festival,” Barbera added. The Venice...