Alongside 'The Sound of Music' star Julie Andrews, the 'Volver' filmmaker will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement accolade during the 76th annual Italian film extravaganza.
- Jun 15, 2019
AceShowbiz - Pedro Almodovar will be honoured with the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the 2019 Venice International Film Festival.
The Spanish filmmaker will be presented with the prestigious prize in recognition of his career during the 76th annual Italian film extravaganza.
"I am very excited and honoured with the gift of this Golden Lion," Almodovar said in a statement. "I have very good memories of the Venice Film Festival. My international debut took place there in 1983 with 'Dark Habits'."
"It was the first time one of my films travelled out of Spain, it was my international baptism and a wonderful experience, as it was my return with 'Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown' in 1988," he continued. "This Lion is going to become my pet, along with the two cats I live with. Thanks from the bottom of my heart for giving me this award."
Festival director Alberto Barbera described the filmmaker as "the greatest and most influential Spanish director since (Luis) Bunuel", and praised his portrayal of women onscreen.
Almodovar will receive the honorary award alongside fellow recipient, "The Sound of Music"'s Julie Andrews. They follow in the footsteps of previous honourees, including Jane Fonda, Robert Redford, Vanessa Redgrave and Clint Eastwood.
