The Big Picture The Best Movies at Telluride and Venice, and the 10 Most Anticipated Fall Films
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Sep 3, 2025 In this discussion, Alex Russell, a talented writer and director known for his work on 'Lurker' and 'The Bear', shares insights from his debut filmmaking experience. He opens up about casting decisions and the challenges of directing with limited experience. The conversation shifts to the excitement surrounding films from the Telluride and Venice festivals, as well as the evolving landscape of anticipated fall releases. Russell also reflects on storytelling authenticity, emotional complexities in friendships, and his hopes for future projects.
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Venice Festival Travel Chaos
- Amanda traveled between the Lido and Venice each day and described long lines, crowded shuttles, and logistical headaches at Venice Film Festival.
- She contrasted Venice's chaotic island logistics with Telluride's more relaxed, walkable festival vibe, which she thought Sean would dislike.
Festivals Reflect Late Capitalism Themes
- Amanda identified late capitalism and aging as recurring thematic threads across many Venice films this year.
- She noted Venice hosted heavyweight directors showing varied tonal work rather than a single programming through-line.
Coppola Access In Megadoc
- Amanda loved Megadoc, Mike Figgis's making-of film about Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis and found it nerdy but riveting.
- She praised Figgis's access and editing, noting revealing on-camera moments with Coppola and the cast.
