The Venice Biennale has extended Alberto Barbera's role as artistic director of the Venice Film Festival for 2027 and 2028. This renewal recognizes his contributions to film selections, talent discovery, and audience growth. Barbera, who has led the festival since 2012, could potentially serve longer.
On March 3, 2026, the board of directors of the Venice Biennale, chaired by president Pietrangelo Buttafuoco, announced the extension of Alberto Barbera's mandate as artistic director of the Venice Film Festival through 2028. The decision extends his current term, which was due to end after the 2026 edition, by two years.
The Biennale's statement highlighted Barbera's achievements: “in consideration of the results he has achieved in the recognized quality of the selections, in discovering and launching new talents on the international stage, in spreading and advancing the culture of cinema and in expanding audiences.” At 76, Barbera is the festival's longest-serving artistic director, having held the position consecutively since the 2012 edition and previously from 1998 to 2001.
When Buttafuoco, a right-wing journalist, became president in 2023, there were concerns he might replace Barbera with someone aligned to Italy's government. However, Buttafuoco has dismissed such speculation.
Under Barbera's leadership, the festival has become a key launchpad for Oscar contenders, including recent entries like “Frankenstein” and “Bugonia,” as well as past winners such as “Gravity,” “Birdman,” “Spotlight,” “La La Land,” “The Shape of Water,” “Roma,” “Joker,” “Nomadland,” and “The Power of the Dog.” It also supports emerging filmmakers worldwide through the Biennale College workshop, which develops micro-budget features.
Barbera's career began in 1989 as artistic director of the Torino Film Festival. He has received honors including a 2022 special tribute from the Gotham Awards, Variety's 2021 International Achievement in Film Award, Academy membership since 2020, and France's Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres in 2000.
The 83rd edition of the festival is scheduled for September 2-12.
