Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 29, 2025 · Entertainment

Julia Roberts Shines at Venice Film Festival with Star-Studded Cast

Julia Roberts led the dazzling arrivals at her premiere for her film After The Hunt alongside a string of her famous co-stars at the Venice Film Festival on Friday night

VENICE FILM FESTIVAL SCANDAL ROCKS: JULIA ROBERTS DEFENDS NEW THRILLER AFTER THE HUNT

The 89th Venice Film Festival is heating up, and this time it's not just about the stunning red carpet arrivals! Julia Roberts, the Hollywood heavyweight, is making her debut at the prestigious event with her new thriller After The Hunt. But little did we know that the movie would spark a heated controversy surrounding feminism and #MeToo.

JULIA ROBERTS: A STAR'S RISE TO FAME

She was joined by her co-stars Ayo Edebiri (pictured), Andrew Garfield and Chloë Sevigny, who all looked sensational as they posed ahead of the big night

The 57-year-old beauty queen arrived on the red carpet looking absolutely regal in a long-sleeved and form-fitting navy gown, paired with soft waves and a selection of silver jewelry. The actress was joined by her co-stars Ayo Edebiri, Andrew Garfield, and Chloë Sevigny, who all slayed the style game.

But behind the glamour and glitz, there's a deeper story brewing. After The Hunt revolves around a college professor (played by Julia) who finds herself at a personal and professional crossroads when a star pupil levels an accusation against one of her colleagues and a dark secret from her own past threatens to come to light. Sounds juicy, right?

THE CONTROVERSY UNFOLDS

Meanwhile, Chloë made a statement in a black lace one-piece with a ruffle skirt, adding height to her frame with a pair of strappy heels

But what really caught our attention was the heated discussion that surrounded Julia's new film. At a photocall earlier in the day, she addressed questions about feminism and #MeToo. In response to accusations of presenting a "post-#Metoo" film that perpetuates bad feminism, Julia remained tight-lipped but emphasized that her team is not making statements; rather, they're portraying people in this moment in time.

"We're not here to make statements; we're challenging people to have conversations," Julia explained. "If making this movie sparks people to talk to each other, then we've accomplished something amazing." She added that humanity has lost the art of conversation, which sparked a wave of emotions among fans and critics alike.

A STAR-STUDDED CAST WEIGHS IN

Andrew Garfield (pictured) cut a typically cool figure in a blue grey suit at the event

As for her co-stars, they all looked like they meant business on the red carpet. Ayo Edebiri cut a stunning figure in a strapless red dress with a dramatic bow-style decoration, while Chloë Sevigny made a statement in a black lace one-piece with a ruffle skirt and strappy heels.

Meanwhile, Andrew Garfield opted for a more casual look but still managed to turn heads with his baby blue woolen jumper and cream chinos. The 42-year-old actor seemed relaxed amidst the chaos of the festival.

A FILM THAT'S NOT AFRAID TO GET COMFY

Left to right: Michael Stuhlbarg, Ayo Edebiri, Julia Roberts, Chloë Sevigny and Andrew Garfield posing at the photocall

Luca Guadagnino directed After The Hunt, which will premiere at the Venice Film Festival tonight. In an interview earlier this week, Julia mentioned that she hopes her film will spark conversations and encourage people to talk about difficult topics.

"We're not here to make a statement; we're here to tell a story," Julia emphasized. "If our movie makes people uncomfortable, then that's a good thing." With such a talented cast and crew behind it, After The Hunt is sure to be one of the most talked-about films at this year's festival.

A STAR'S REACTION TO THE CONTROVERSY

Julia made her Venice debut as she stars in brand new thriller After The Hunt, which will premiere at the festival

Julia Roberts' response to the controversy surrounding her film has sparked both admiration and criticism from fans. As one fan took to social media to praise Julia for taking on tough subjects, another slammed her for perpetuating "bad feminism."

But what do you think? Do you agree with Julia that conversation is key in addressing complex issues like #MeToo? Share your thoughts!

A LOOK AT THE CAST AND CREW

The A-listers were snapped as they came together for a photocall for the festival ahead of the premiere of their new film

  • Julia Roberts: 57-year-old Hollywood heavyweight and star of After The Hunt
  • Ayo Edebiri: Rising star from the hit TV show The Bear, starring as a young woman who accuses one of Julia's characters of sexual assault
  • Andrew Garfield: Talented actor known for his roles in Spider-Man and The Amazing Maurice, playing a professor accused by Ayo's character
  • Chloë Sevigny: Veteran actress with over 100 film credits to her name, starring alongside Julia in After The Hunt
  • Luca Guadagnino: Acclaimed director behind the new thriller, known for his work on Call Me By Your Name and Suspiria

STAY TUNED FOR THE PREMIERE OF AFTER THE HUNT TONIGHT!

The Venice Film Festival continues tonight with the highly anticipated premiere of After The Hunt. Stay tuned for updates from the red carpet, reviews, and reactions to this shocking new thriller!

Left to right: Andrew Garfield, Ayo Edebiri, Julia Roberts, Luca Guadagnino, Chloë Sevigny, Nora Garrett and Michael Stuhlbarg

This article was brought to you by The Scholarly Note.

Actress Chloë looked chic in a rose-coloured embroidered dress that featured cutouts at the front