Legendary auteur Werner Herzog is returning to the Lido, with his highly anticipated feature film “Bucking Fastard” officially selected to compete for the prestigious Golden Lion at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival. The announcement by artistic director Alberto Barbera confirms that the film will make its world premiere during the festival.
“Bucking Fastard“
The project marks a significant milestone for real-life sisters Kate Mara and Rooney Mara, who share the screen for the first time in their careers. The sisters star as Jean and Joan Holbrooke, two twin sisters living on the fringes of society who set out in search of an imaginary land where true love is possible. In classic Herzogian fashion, their quest involves attempting to dig a tunnel directly through a mountain range. The star-studded ensemble cast also features Orlando Bloom and Domhnall Gleeson.
Herzog, who both wrote and directed the film, drew inspiration for “Bucking Fastard” from the real-life story of Greta and Freda Chaplin. The British identical twins made headlines in the 1980s for their intense synchronization, often speaking in unison, and for the legal battles surrounding their obsession with a neighbor. Herzog previously detailed his fascination with the Chaplin sisters in a chapter of his 2022 memoir “Every Man for Himself and God Against All“. The eccentric title “Bucking Fastard” originates from a real-life spoonerism the Chaplin twins uttered synchronously while appearing in court.
“Bucking Fastard” represents a key creative reunion between Herzog and several of his frequent key artistic collaborators, including cinematographer Peter Zeitlinger, film editor Marco Capalbo, and Dutch composer Ernst Reijseger.
The film’s journey to Venice follows an intriguing festival history. Reports indicate that it was initially offered a premier spot at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival in its non-competitive lineup. However, the proposal was declined in favor of waiting for a main competition slot, which it has now successfully secured on the Lido. At Venice, Herzog will face strong international competition alongside fellow directors such as Danny Boyle, Martin McDonagh, and Lee Chang-dong.
Munich
The 83rd Venice International Film Festival runs from September 2-12, 2026 in Venice, Italy. Born in Munich, Germany, Herzog will turn 84 on September 5, 2026.
Munich effortlessly blends centuries-old traditions with modern innovation. As the capital of Bavaria, this lively metropolis offers visitors a rich tapestry of history, world-class culture, and distinct local character.
At the city’s heart lies Marienplatz, dominated by the Neo-Gothic New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) and its famous Glockenspiel, which re-enacts 16th-century historical tales. Art and history enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the opulent Munich Residenz, the former palace of Bavarian monarchs, or visit the nearby Kunstareal museum district to view masterworks spanning centuries. A short transit ride north takes automotive buffs to the sleek BMW Museum to explore modern engineering.
No mention of Munich is complete without its iconic beer culture. Home to the world-famous Oktoberfest—held annually in late September and early October—and legendary beer halls like the Hofbräuhaus, the city celebrates its hospitality with giant pretzels, hearty Bavarian cuisine, and time-honored brewing traditions.
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