Restored 'Queen Kelly' Set to Pre-Open Venice Film Festival

The Venice Film Festival has announced the pre-opening screening of a newly restored version of Erich von Stroheim's 1929 silent film 'Queen Kelly,' starring the iconic Gloria Swanson. Scheduled for August 26, 2025, the film will be shown at the Lido's Sala Darsena theatre, accompanied by a live orchestral performance from U.S. composer Eli Denson. This marked event not only highlights the film's historical significance but also its reimagining through advanced digital restoration techniques.

'Queen Kelly' remains a captivating piece of cinematic history, originally conceived by Stroheim as a commentary on the complexities of desire and morality. The film follows Patricia Kelly, portrayed by Swanson, who escapes a convent only to find herself embroiled in a series of turbulent events in Africa, ultimately leading to her descent into a brothel. This narrative, filled with controversy and bold themes, was initially halted during production due to Swanson’s dissatisfaction with Stroheim's directorial approach and escalating costs. The film's production spanned a mere three months, from November 1, 1928, to January 21, 1929, and was shut down after approximately $800,000 had been spent, a staggering amount for its time.

According to Dennis Doros, co-founder of Milestone Films, the current iteration of 'Queen Kelly' is based on newly uncovered materials that have allowed for a more complete vision aligned with Stroheim’s original script. In a statement, Doros noted that advancements in digital restoration techniques have made it possible to create a 'gorgeous new reimagining of this lost masterpiece.' Established in 1985, Milestone Films specializes in the restoration and distribution of vintage cinema, and their efforts have brought 'Queen Kelly' back into the spotlight, nearly a century after its original production.

The Venice Film Festival, running from August 27 to September 6, 2025, will feature a lineup announcement on July 22. The festival has a longstanding tradition of showcasing restored classics, and this year’s pre-opening event exemplifies its commitment to preserving and celebrating film history. The festival's artistic director, Alberto Barbera, emphasized that 'Queen Kelly' is a testament to the enduring legacy of silent cinema and the visionary talent of Erich von Stroheim.

As the film prepares for its grand unveiling, industry experts and historians alike are eager to witness how modern technology can revive and reinterpret classic narratives. The screening will not only serve as an homage to the film's storied past but also as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural artifacts. The interplay of live music with the restored visuals is expected to create a unique cinematic experience that resonates with both audiences familiar with the original work and newcomers to silent film.

In conclusion, the pre-opening of 'Queen Kelly' at the Venice Film Festival marks a significant cultural event, reflecting the ongoing dialogue between historical cinema and contemporary artistic expression. This restoration and its accompanying live score not only aim to captivate audiences but also to provoke discussions about the themes presented in Stroheim’s work—questions of morality, identity, and the societal constraints faced by women. As the festival approaches, the anticipation surrounding this event underscores the film’s relevance in today’s cinematic landscape.