Woody Allen’s latest film, “Stroke of luck,” premiered at the Venice Film Festival on Monday, receiving a standing ovation from the audience. The film, which Allen directed and wrote himself, centers around the seemingly ideal married couple, Fanny and Jean. However, when Fanny reunites with a former classmate, Alain, their relationship takes an unexpected turn.
The star-studded cast includes Lou de Laâge, Valérie Lemercier, Melvil Poupaud, Niels Schneider, Elsa Zylberstein, Bárbara Goenaga, Grégory Gadebois, Anne Loiret, Sara Martins, Guillaume de Tonquédec, and Arnaud Viard.
Allen, who is now 87 years old, received a warm welcome and applause from the press during the festival. Reflecting on his life, Allen expressed gratitude for his fortunate experiences and the support he has received throughout his career.
However, the premiere was not without controversy. Before Allen stepped onto the red carpet, around 20 protesters marched past shouting slogans against rape culture and patriarchy. Festival police quickly intervened and dispersed the demonstration. Prior to the premiere, banners protesting Allen and Roman Polanski, whose film “The Palace” is competing for the top prize, were displayed around the festival.
One of the demonstrators claimed they were protesting “the rape culture of this festival” and the celebration of men accused of assault, while femicide continues to be a pressing issue.
Allen previously described “Stroke of luck” as a contemporary story of romance, passion, and violence set in Paris. The film was shot throughout the city, as well as in the countryside. Featuring a talented French cast, the movie is entirely in French and promises stunning cinematography by Vittorio Storaro.
As the Venice Film Festival continues, “Stroke of luck” generates both acclaim and controversy, adding to the ongoing discussions surrounding Allen’s work and the industry’s approach to allegations of misconduct.