Artist Julian Schnabel Speaks Up in Defense of Gal Gadot at Venice Event: "Boycotting Artists Unnecessary"
In the heart of August, the illustrious Venice Film Festival will once again grace the city's canals, running from the 27th of August to the 6th of September. This year, the festival promises a unique spectacle with the world premiere of Julian Schnabel's latest directorial venture, "In the Hand of Dante."
The film, an intriguing crime drama based on a handwritten manuscript of Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy, has been selected as an out-of-competition entry. Schnabel, a veteran artist and auteur, has previously premiered his directorial debut Basquiat and his film Before Night Falls at the Venice Film Festival.
Schnabel, along with Louise Kugelberg, has adapted the film from Tosches' novel. The film features an all-star cast, including Gal Gadot, Gerard Butler, Oscar Isaac, Al Pacino, John Malkovich, Martin Scorsese, Jason Momoa, Louis Cancelmi, Franco Nero, Sabrina Impacciatore, and Benjamin Clementine. Notably, Oscar Isaac plays dual roles of Nick Tosches and Dante Alighieri in the film.
Oscar Isaac, an American actor known for his versatile roles in films such as "Inside Llewyn Davis" and various major productions, was drawn to the film's material due to its "impossibility." Isaac has confirmed his excitement to work with Schnabel again.
However, the ongoing conflict in Gaza has cast a shadow over the festival this year. The conflict has reportedly affected the festival's proceedings, although Schnabel has declined to address the issue directly.
Regarding the cast, while Oscar Isaac has confirmed his attendance, Gal Gadot's participation in the festival has not been confirmed. It is worth noting that Gadot, an Israeli star who completed compulsory service in the Israel Defense Forces, has recently denounced the Gaza war.
The film, "In the Hand of Dante," is being sold internationally by WME Independent. Schnabel will be honoured with a Cartier Glory to the Filmmaker Award during the film's world premiere, a fitting recognition for his significant contributions to the world of film.
