The Venice Film Festival gave center stage to women in cinema with Reel Women, an exclusive late-night gathering hosted by filmmaker, actress, and producer Maria Soccor at the Campari Lounge. The event, which began at 10 p.m., brought together filmmakers, actors, producers, and industry leaders to honor female voices and stories in film against the backdrop of one of the world’s most influential festivals.
Soccor, whose award-winning body of work highlights underrepresented perspectives, has long advocated for inclusivity and gender equality in the arts. A familiar presence at global festivals as a moderator, mentor, and supporter of emerging talent, she extended her mission to Venice with Reel Women, creating a space for connection, recognition, and dialogue within the international film community.
The gathering drew a notable roster of attendees. Jared Harris and his wife Allegra were among the guests, with his film House of Dynamite debuting at Venice this week amid strong buzz. Also present were producer Debra Gainor of Producers Without Borders, actress Agathe Levi, producer Vicktoria Silmara Turmina of Mindgate Motion Pictures, Jojo Dye of The Members Club and Producers Without Borders, Jane Owen of Jane Owen Public Relations, Ann Hafström of the Creative Lifestyle Agency, actress Tora Kim, and models Gillian Nation and Tia Goossen.
Founded in 1932, the Venice International Film Festival is the world’s oldest and remains a vital showcase for both established auteurs and emerging filmmakers. Alongside Cannes and Berlin, it is considered one of Europe’s “Big Three,” offering a global stage for cinema’s most significant voices. Hosting Reel Women during the festival underscored the importance of continuing to uplift diverse storytellers both on-screen and behind the camera.
Presented by Campari in collaboration with Maria Soccor Productions Inc. and Jane Owen Public Relations, the evening featured Campari’s signature cocktails, gourmet appetizers, and other refreshments. “Venice has long been a platform for extraordinary storytelling, and REEL WOMEN was a chance to gather in recognition of the incredible female talent shaping the industry today,” said Soccor.
Invitation-only, the event highlighted the shared commitment of Campari and its partners to supporting creativity, inclusivity, and the next generation of filmmakers. The Campari Lounge stayed lively late into the night, alive with conversation, collaboration, and the energy that defines Venice’s most celebrated week.