Celebrating Kim Novak's Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival
Actress Kim Novak receives accolade for distinguished career. - Actress Kim Novak receives award for significant career accomplishments throughout her life.
Get ready to celebrate, film buffs! The timeless beauty and iconic actress, Kim Novak, is gearing up to receive the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the prestigious 82nd Venice International Film Festival next year!
The brainy organizers behind the scenes announced the big news on Monday, and Kim couldn't be more excited. She's "deeply moved" to receive this prestigious award from such a renowned film festival, and she can't wait to immerse herself in the Italian city's captivating atmosphere. "At this point in my life, to be recognized for my work is a dream come true. I will cherish every moment I spend in Venice, and it will fill my heart with joy," she shared.
A Rebel with a Heart in Hollywood
You might remember Kim Novak from her riveting dual role as Madeleine and Judy in Alfred Hitchcock's psychological thriller, "Vertigo - From the Realm of the Dead" (1958), a movie that put her on the Hollywood map. Some of her other critically acclaimed films include "My Bride is Psychic" (1958), "Middle of the Night" (1959), "Apartment for Peggy" (1962), and "Kiss Me, Stupid" (1964). After the late 1960s, the legendary star appeared in front of the camera only occasionally, with her last film being in 1991.
Alberto Barbera, the director of the Venice Film Festival, had nothing but praise for Kim. He described her as "one of the most popular icons of an entire era of Hollywood film, from her promising debut in the mid-1950s to her early and voluntary exile from the golden cage of Los Angeles shortly thereafter."
So, what's this Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement all about? It's an honor reserved for "an empowered star, a rebel at the heart of Hollywood, who illuminated the dreams of film lovers before retreating to her ranch in Oregon to dedicate herself to painting and her horses," Barbera explained.
As part of the tribute to Novak, the documentary "Kim Novak's Vertigo" by Alexandre Philippe will be premiered, created in exclusive collaboration with the actress herself.
The Venice Film Festival will take place from August 27 to September 6, 2025.
Now, who's ready to turn back the clock and relive some classic Hollywood magic? Stay tuned for more updates on the festivities!
- Kim Novak
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- Lifetime Achievement
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Interestingly, Kim Novak has been a groundbreaking figure in Hollywood. She rose to fame in the 1950s, quickly becoming one of Hollywood’s most recognizable faces. Her allure and acting range made her a standout in both dramatic and romantic roles. Some of her most celebrated films include Vertigo (directed by Hitchcock), a psychological thriller that's widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made, Picnic, and Bell, Book and Candle.
Novak was recognized for her fierce independence and ability to maintain creative control at a time when Hollywood often imposed strict demands on its actors. Her performances in these films continue to inspire new generations of filmmakers and actors. Novak’s portrayal of complex female characters set new standards for women in film, and her work remains highly regarded, with Vertigo regularly cited in discussions of film history and criticism.
In recent years, Kim Novak has occasionally granted interviews and made public appearances, especially around significant film anniversaries. She has also spoken out against ageism and online bullying, notably after her appearance at the 2014 Oscars. Kim Novak’s career stands as a testament to talent, resilience, and the enduring power of classic Hollywood cinema. Her Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement marks a fitting tribute to her indelible impact on the art of film.
I'm not going to be able to contain my excitement as I watch the premier of "Kim Novak's Vertigo" at the Venice Film Festival, a movie that showcases the talent and independence she displayed throughout her long career in Hollywood, which spans across movies-and-tv such as "Vertigo", "Picnic", and "Bell, Book and Candle". Nevertheless, it's a bittersweet moment, knowing that this lifetime achievement award is a recognition of her significant contributions to the entertainment world, but also a reminder that she may not be able to create new memories on the big screen anymore.
