Venice’s Grand Canal transformed into a vibrant hub of festivity on Friday night, as filmmakers and stars convened for glamorous parties following the day’s premieres. Among these glittering affairs, a particular highlight was the exclusive dinner hosted by Cartier and the esteemed cinema publication, A Rabbit’s Foot, held within the opulent confines of the Gritti Palace. The evening, orchestrated by Charles Finch, editor-in-chief of A Rabbit’s Foot, drew a constellation of cinematic talent including Jacob Elordi, promoting his role in Guillermo del Toro's latest work, and esteemed directors Sofia Coppola and Francis Ford Coppola. Also in attendance were Alicia Silverstone from Bugonia and Alexander Payne, the president of this year's Venice Film Festival jury, all gathered to partake in a delightful meal of vegetable risotto and grilled fish.
The night was punctuated by eloquent tributes to the art of filmmaking. Charles Finch initiated the series of commendations by acknowledging Cartier’s consistent dedication to supporting cinematic endeavors, marking their fourth consecutive year as the festival’s primary sponsor and official partner. Following this, Arnaud Carrez, Cartier’s Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, extended his gratitude to Finch for the successful collaboration and to the distinguished assembly of artists present. As the formal dinner concluded, guests ascended to the Gritti’s rooftop, which had been spectacularly reimagined into an open-air club. Here, luminaries such as Rashida Jones, Gemma Chan, and George Mackay savored champagne amidst breathtaking views of the illuminated Santa Maria della Salute church and the surrounding lagoon. Despite early departures by some attendees with upcoming press engagements, the celebration persisted, allowing many to unwind and share their anticipation for the films slated for the upcoming week.
This remarkable event not only highlighted the collaborative spirit between luxury brands and the arts but also reinforced the intrinsic value of cinema as a shared human experience. Such gatherings are vital, fostering connections and igniting passion within the film community. They serve as a powerful reminder that beyond the red carpets and premieres, the heart of film lies in its ability to bring people together, inspire dialogue, and celebrate creativity. These moments of collective joy and appreciation ultimately contribute to the enduring legacy of the cinematic craft, promising a brighter and more vibrant future for storytelling on screen.